Psalms 136:19

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

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

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

Sihon king of the Amorites His loving devotion endures forever.

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

Commentary

Context

Psalm 136 is a unique psalm of praise, characterized by its repetitive refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever." This psalm functions as a grand liturgical hymn, recounting the history of God's redemptive acts from creation through the Exodus, the wilderness wanderings, and the conquest of the Promised Land, culminating in His ongoing provision. Each verse highlights a specific divine act, immediately followed by the declaration of God's eternal mercy. Verse 19 specifically recalls a significant moment in Israel's history during their journey towards Canaan.

Historical Background

This verse refers to Sihon king of the Amorites, a powerful ruler whose territory lay east of the Jordan River. As the Israelites were leaving Egypt and approaching the Promised Land, they requested peaceful passage through Sihon's kingdom. However, Sihon refused and instead marched out to engage Israel in battle. Despite Sihon's might, God granted Israel a decisive victory, leading to the defeat of Sihon and the capture of his land. This pivotal event is detailed in Numbers 21:21-35 and further recounted in Deuteronomy 2:26-37. The conquest of Sihon's territory was a crucial step in Israel's inheritance, demonstrating God's active involvement in fulfilling His covenant promises.

Key Themes

  • God's Enduring Mercy (Hesed): The central and overarching theme of Psalm 136. Even in acts of judgment against Israel's enemies, God's mercy is displayed towards His chosen people. The defeat of Sihon, a formidable foe, was an act of deliverance for Israel, allowing them to advance towards their inheritance.
  • Divine Sovereignty and Providence: God's hand was clearly at work, orchestrating events and empowering Israel to overcome powerful opposition. This victory was not by Israel's strength alone, but by divine intervention.
  • Fulfillment of Promise: The defeat of Sihon was a tangible step in God's faithfulness to the Abrahamic covenant, promising Israel a land of their own. This act underscored God's commitment to His people, even when facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word translated as "mercy" is hesed (ื—ึถืกึถื“). While often rendered as mercy, it carries a richer meaning encompassing steadfast love, lovingkindness, loyalty, and covenant faithfulness. It describes a deep, enduring commitment, especially within a relationship. The phrase "endureth for ever" (ืœึฐืขื•ึนืœึธื ื—ึทืกึฐื“ึผื•ึน - l'olam chasdo) emphasizes the eternal, unwavering, and consistent nature of God's hesed. It is not a fleeting emotion but a perpetual attribute of His character, actively demonstrated throughout history, even in events of conquest and judgment.

Practical Application

For believers today, the defeat of Sihon serves as a powerful reminder that God's mercy is active and effective in overcoming the "giants" or obstacles in our lives. Just as God cleared the way for Israel, He continues to work on behalf of His people, providing deliverance and fulfilling His purposes. This verse encourages us to:

  • Trust in God's Unfailing Love: Even when facing powerful adversaries or challenging circumstances, we can rely on God's unchanging character and His commitment to His people.
  • Acknowledge God's Past Faithfulness: Reflecting on historical accounts of God's intervention, both in biblical narratives and in our personal lives, strengthens our faith for current and future challenges.
  • Give Thanks Continually: The repetitive nature of Psalm 136 encourages a posture of constant gratitude, recognizing God's enduring mercy in every aspect of His dealings with humanity. His mercy is not just a concept, but a dynamic force at work in the world.

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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

    ยถ 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.
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