Psalms 136:19

KJV

Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy [endureth] for ever:

KJV (with Strong's)

Sihon {H5511} king {H4428} of the Amorites {H567}: for his mercy {H2617} endureth for ever {H5769}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Sichon king of the Emori, for his grace continues forever;

Berean Standard Bible

Sihon king of the Amorites His loving devotion endures forever.

American Standard Version

Sihon king of the Amorites; For his lovingkindness endureth forever;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 136:19 continues a magnificent liturgical hymn, celebrating the unwavering faithfulness and steadfast love of God as powerfully demonstrated through His historical acts of deliverance for Israel. This particular verse recounts the divine conquest of Sihon, the formidable king of the Amorites, whose defeat was a crucial step in Israel's journey toward the Promised Land. Like every other mighty deed recounted in this psalm, the overthrow of Sihon is explicitly attributed to God's enduring mercy, which is declared to "endureth for ever," underscoring that even in acts of judgment against His people's adversaries, God's ultimate purpose is the merciful fulfillment of His covenant promises to Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 136 stands out due to its distinctive antiphonal structure, where each declaration of God's mighty acts is followed by the congregational refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever." This "Great Hallel" psalm systematically chronicles God's redemptive history, commencing with the grand act of creation ([Psalms 136:4-9](/psalms/136-4-9 "Psalms 136:4-9 - God the Creator")), progressing through the miraculous Exodus from Egypt ([Psalms 136:10-15](/psalms/136-10-15 "Psalms 136:10-15 - God the Deliverer from Egypt")), guiding Israel through the perilous wilderness ([Psalms 136:16](/psalms/136-16 "Psalms 136:16 - God the Wilderness Guide")), and culminating in the conquest of the Promised Land. Verses 17-22 specifically detail the defeat of powerful kings, including Sihon and Og, who obstructed Israel's path. Verse 19 is precisely situated within this historical progression, serving as a specific testament to God's active and powerful intervention in clearing the way for His chosen people to inherit their divinely promised land.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "Sihon king of the Amorites" immediately evokes a significant episode from Israel's wilderness wanderings, as they approached the land of Canaan from the east. Sihon was a potent Amorite ruler whose kingdom was centered in Heshbon, controlling a strategically vital corridor east of the Jordan River. When Moses sought peaceful passage for Israel through his territory, Sihon not only refused but aggressively mobilized his army to confront them at Jahaz. This pivotal encounter is extensively documented in [Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - The Defeat of Sihon and Og") and further expounded upon in [Deuteronomy 2:26-37](/deuteronomy/2-26-37 "Deuteronomy 2:26-37 - Moses Recounts the Defeat of Sihon"). Despite the Amorites' reputation as formidable warriors, often associated with their strength in mountainous regions, God granted Israel a decisive victory, leading to the complete subjugation of Sihon's kingdom. This conquest was far more than a military triumph; it was a profound divine act, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to grant Israel the land, thereby preparing their entry into Canaan.
* **Key Themes:** The preeminent and pervasive theme of Psalm 136, powerfully articulated in verse 19, is **God's Enduring Mercy (Hesed)**. This divine attribute transcends mere pity; it is a steadfast, covenantal love that undergirds every one of God's actions, even those involving judgment against Israel's adversaries. The defeat of Sihon, a formidable foe, was a direct act of deliverance for Israel, enabling their advance towards their inheritance, thereby showcasing God's profound *hesed* towards His chosen people. This event also vividly illustrates **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**. God's hand was unmistakably at work, orchestrating events and empowering Israel to overcome seemingly insurmountable opposition. The victory was not a result of Israel's military prowess alone but of divine intervention, emphasizing God's absolute control over history and nations. Furthermore, the conquest of Sihon's territory represented a tangible step in the **Fulfillment of Promise**, specifically the Abrahamic covenant to provide Israel with a land of their own ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abram")). This act reaffirmed God's unwavering commitment to His people, even when they faced powerful obstacles.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sihon (Hebrew, _Çîychôwn'_):** Derived from a root meaning "tempestuous," Sihon was the formidable Amoritish king whose defiant refusal to grant Israel passage through his territory precipitated a decisive battle. His specific mention highlights a well-known historical event where God's power was unequivocally demonstrated over a mighty human adversary. This underscores that God's mercy is actively engaged in overcoming specific, powerful obstacles that stand in the way of His people and His promises.
* **mercy (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** This rich Hebrew term encapsulates far more than simple pity or compassion. It denotes kindness, steadfast love, loyalty, and unwavering covenant faithfulness. In the context of God's interactions with Israel, *hesed* describes His enduring commitment to His covenant promises, His inherent goodness, and His active benevolence towards His people. The defeat of Sihon, though an act of judgment against an enemy, is framed as an act of *hesed* because it cleared the path for Israel, thereby demonstrating God's faithful and protective love for them.
* **for ever (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** This word signifies eternity, perpetuity, or "time out of mind," encompassing both past and future. When combined with *hesed*, it profoundly emphasizes the eternal, unwavering, and consistent nature of God's covenantal love. It is not a fleeting emotion or a temporary disposition but a perpetual attribute of His character, actively demonstrated throughout history and continuing without end. The phrase "for his mercy endureth for ever" thus underscores the unchanging and utterly reliable nature of God's character and His commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Sihon king of the Amorites:"** This initial clause precisely identifies the historical figure and his people, referencing a specific, well-remembered event in Israel's journey. It strategically sets the stage for recognizing God's supreme power and intervention against a known, formidable opponent. The Amorites were a significant Canaanitish tribe, often associated with strength and their dwelling in mountainous regions, making Sihon's defeat all the more remarkable as a clear demonstration of divine power rather than mere human military might.
* **"for his mercy endureth for ever:"** This is the psalm's iconic and recurring refrain, immediately following the mention of Sihon's defeat. It explicitly attributes the conquest, not to Israel's strength or strategic cunning, but directly to God's eternal *hesed*. This declaration transforms a military victory into a profound theological statement, asserting that even in acts of judgment against enemies, God's underlying motivation and character remain steadfastly merciful towards His covenant people. This highlights that all of God's actions, whether in creation, deliverance, or conquest, are ultimately expressions of His unchanging, faithful love.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 136, and specifically verse 19, profoundly utilizes **Repetition** through its ubiquitous refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever." This consistent iteration serves multiple critical purposes: it powerfully reinforces the central theological truth of God's enduring *hesed*, functions as an effective mnemonic device for communal recitation, and imbues the psalm with a rhythmic, liturgical quality suitable for worship. The psalm's structure itself masterfully functions as a **Litany** or **Call and Response**, where each divine act is presented, followed by the congregational affirmation of God's eternal mercy, creating a deeply immersive and participatory worship experience. There is also a significant element of **Contrast** woven throughout the psalm, as the overwhelming power and might of human adversaries (such as Sihon) are dramatically juxtaposed against the infinitely greater, unfailing power and mercy of God. The divine defeat of a "tempestuous" king by direct divine intervention powerfully highlights God's supreme **Sovereignty** over all earthly powers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The historical defeat of Sihon, king of the Amorites, is not merely an isolated historical event but a profound theological statement woven into the fabric of the biblical narrative. It unequivocally demonstrates God's active and decisive involvement in human history, particularly His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises. This event underscores that God's justice and judgment are always intricately intertwined with His steadfast love and mercy for His people. He clears the path, removes formidable obstacles, and defeats enemies not out of arbitrary power or caprice, but out of His eternal *hesed* to bring about His redemptive purposes. This act of divine intervention serves as a powerful reminder that God is both sovereign over all creation and intimately involved in the lives of those He has chosen, providing deliverance and ensuring the ultimate fulfillment of His divine word.

* [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6-7 "Exodus 34:6-7 - The Lord's Character Revealed to Moses")
* [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - The Steadfast Love of the Lord Never Ceases")
* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The recounting of Sihon's defeat in Psalms 136:19, powerfully framed by the declaration of God's enduring mercy, offers profound encouragement and practical application for believers today. Just as God actively intervened to clear the path for Israel to inherit their land, He continues to work on behalf of His people, providing deliverance and fulfilling His purposes in our lives. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep and abiding trust in God's unfailing love, even when facing seemingly insurmountable "giants" or obstacles in our personal journeys. It encourages us to reflect deeply on God's past faithfulness, both in the grand narratives of biblical history and in our own personal experiences, thereby strengthening our faith for current and future challenges. Furthermore, the repetitive and liturgical nature of Psalm 136 fosters a posture of constant gratitude, prompting us to acknowledge God's enduring mercy in every aspect of His dealings with humanity, recognizing that His *hesed* is not just a theological concept but a dynamic, active force at work in the world, guiding, protecting, and providing for His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Sihons" or formidable obstacles are you currently facing in your life, and how might remembering God's past acts of deliverance, both biblical and personal, strengthen your faith and resolve?**
* **How does the concept of God's "mercy endureth for ever" challenge or deepen your understanding of His character, especially in moments of personal difficulty, perceived judgment, or unanswered prayer?**
* **In what tangible ways can you more intentionally practice and express gratitude for God's enduring mercy in your daily life, perhaps mirroring the call-and-response nature of Psalm 136 in your personal worship or communal expressions?**

### FAQ
**Why is the defeat of Sihon mentioned as an act of God's mercy?**

Answer: The defeat of Sihon, king of the Amorites, is presented as a profound act of God's mercy because it was a crucial and necessary step in fulfilling God's covenant promises to Israel. Sihon stood as a formidable and defiant barrier to Israel's entry into the Promised Land. By decisively defeating him, God cleared the way for His people, demonstrating His faithful love (*hesed*) and unwavering commitment to their inheritance. While it was an act of judgment against Sihon and his kingdom, it was simultaneously a powerful act of deliverance, provision, and protection for Israel, enabling them to advance towards the land God had promised them. This highlights that God's mercy is often displayed through His sovereign acts of justice that serve His overarching redemptive purposes for His chosen people, as vividly detailed in [Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - The Defeat of Sihon and Og").

**What does "mercy endureth for ever" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "mercy endureth for ever" (Hebrew: *l'olam chasdo*) emphasizes the eternal, unwavering, and consistent nature of God's covenantal love and faithfulness. In this context, it signifies that God's *hesed* is not a temporary emotion, a conditional response, or a fleeting disposition, but a perpetual and unchanging attribute of His very character. Every single act recounted in Psalm 136, including the defeat of Sihon, is presented as a direct manifestation of this unchanging divine attribute. It serves to assure the worshiper that God's commitment to His people and His promises is steadfast, reliable, and will never cease, providing a bedrock of security, hope, and confidence across all generations, as powerfully affirmed in [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - God's Steadfast Love Endures").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The historical defeat of Sihon, king of the Amorites, by God's mighty hand, recounted in Psalms 136:19 as a profound act of His enduring mercy, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as God cleared the path for ancient Israel to enter the earthly Promised Land by overcoming a powerful human adversary, so too has Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death, and triumphant resurrection, decisively triumphed over the ultimate spiritual enemies—sin, death, and Satan—to open the way to an eternal inheritance for all who believe. The *hesed* of God, so vividly displayed in the Old Testament acts of deliverance, reaches its apex in the cross, where God's steadfast love was supremely demonstrated by giving His only Son for the salvation of humanity ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love")). Jesus is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), the ultimate Victor who disarmed the powers and authorities ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Evil")), and the one through whom we can now boldly approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). The declaration that "mercy endureth for ever" finds its eternal guarantee in the new covenant established through Christ's shed blood, promising an everlasting relationship with God and an eternal dwelling in the heavenly city.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 29:7

And when ye came unto this place, Sihon the king of Heshbon, and Og the king of Bashan, came out against us unto battle, and we smote them:

Deuteronomy 2:30

But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as [appeareth] this day.

Deuteronomy 2:36

From Aroer, which [is] by the brink of the river of Arnon, and [from] the city that [is] by the river, even unto Gilead, there was not one city too strong for us: the LORD our God delivered all unto us:

Numbers 21:21

¶ And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,

Numbers 21:24

And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon unto Jabbok, even unto the children of Ammon: for the border of the children of Ammon [was] strong.