Psalms 136:15

But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

But overthrew {H5287} Pharaoh {H6547} and his host {H2428} in the Red {H5488} sea {H3220}: for his mercy {H2617} endureth for ever {H5769}.

but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Sea of Suf, for his grace continues forever;

but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea. His loving devotion endures forever.

But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea; For his lovingkindness endureth for ever:

Psalm 136:15 is part of a unique psalm, often called "The Great Hallel," which is characterized by its repetitive refrain: "for his mercy endureth for ever." This particular verse highlights a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating God's immense power in judgment against their oppressors and His unwavering faithfulness to His people.

Context

Psalm 136 is structured as a litany, calling for thanksgiving to God for various aspects of His creation, providence, and redemptive acts throughout history. Each declarative statement about God's greatness or mighty deeds is followed by the refrain. Verse 15 specifically recalls the dramatic climax of the Exodus narrative, where God delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage by destroying Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea. This event was not merely a military victory for Israel but a profound theological statement about God's ultimate sovereignty over nations and nature, showcasing His commitment to His covenant people.

Key Themes

  • God's Sovereign Power and Judgment: The act of "overthrowing Pharaoh and his host" vividly displays God's absolute power to intervene in human affairs and execute justice. Pharaoh, who had defied God and enslaved His people, faced divine judgment. This serves as a powerful reminder that no earthly power can ultimately stand against the will of the Almighty.
  • God's Enduring Mercy (Chesed): The refrain "for his mercy endureth for ever" is central to this psalm. The Hebrew word for mercy here is chesed, which signifies a loyal, steadfast, covenantal love and kindness. While the verse describes a destructive act, it is framed within the context of God's enduring mercy towards Israel. Pharaoh's overthrow was an act of judgment for Egypt, but an act of deliverance and mercy for Israel, ensuring their freedom and journey towards the promised land. This demonstrates that God's justice and mercy are not mutually exclusive but are two sides of His righteous character, often working in tandem to fulfill His purposes.
  • Divine Deliverance: The event at the Red Sea is the quintessential act of deliverance in the Old Testament, setting a precedent for God's willingness and ability to rescue His people from seemingly insurmountable odds. It is a foundational narrative for understanding God as a deliverer, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate deliverance offered through Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "his mercy endureth for ever" translates the Hebrew ki l'olam chasdo. As mentioned, chesed (often translated as "mercy," "lovingkindness," or "steadfast love") is a deep theological term representing God's faithful, loyal, and covenantal love. It's not just a feeling but an active, enduring commitment. The word l'olam means "forever" or "to eternity," emphasizing the eternal nature of God's faithfulness, which is the bedrock of His relationship with His people.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 136:15 offers profound reassurance. It reminds us that the same God who powerfully delivered Israel from Egypt by overthrowing their oppressors is still active and sovereign. When facing overwhelming challenges or oppressive circumstances, we can trust in His enduring mercy and His ability to deliver. This verse encourages us to remember God's past faithfulness as a basis for present hope, knowing that His loyal love will never fail, even when His methods involve powerful and decisive action. It calls us to respond with continuous thanksgiving, acknowledging that all deliverance and blessings flow from His unchanging character.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 78:53

    And he led them on safely, so that they feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.

  • Psalms 135:9

    [Who] sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants.

  • Nehemiah 9:10

    And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them. So didst thou get thee a name, as [it is] this day.

  • Nehemiah 9:11

    And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters.

  • Exodus 15:4

    Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.

  • Exodus 15:5

    The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.

  • Luke 1:71

    That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
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