[Even] an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.
Even an heritage {H5159} unto Israel {H3478} his servant {H5650}: for his mercy {H2617} endureth for ever {H5769}.
to be possessed by Isra'el his servant, for his grace continues forever;
a heritage to His servant Israel. His loving devotion endures forever.
Even a heritage unto Israel his servant; For his lovingkindness endureth for ever:
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Psalms 47:4
He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah. -
Psalms 105:6
O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen.
Context
Psalm 136 is a unique liturgical hymn, often called the "Great Hallel," characterized by its repetitive refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever." This psalm serves as a powerful call to thanksgiving, recounting God's mighty acts of creation, deliverance, and provision throughout Israel's history. Verse 22 specifically highlights the culmination of God's redemptive work for Israel: the giving of the Promised Land.
Following sections that detail God's defeat of powerful kings like Sihon and Og (verses 19-21), this verse emphasizes that these victories were not for conquest alone, but to establish Israel's rightful heritage in the land of Canaan. This heritage was promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and its fulfillment underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word translated as "mercy" is חֶסֶד (chesed or hesed). This term is rich in meaning, encompassing concepts of loyal love, steadfast love, covenant faithfulness, and enduring kindness. It's not merely pity but a strong, active commitment rooted in a relationship. The repeated declaration that God's hesed "endureth for ever" emphasizes its eternal, unchanging nature, serving as the foundation for all His actions on behalf of His people, including the giving of their heritage.
Significance and Application
For the modern believer, Psalm 136:22, with its powerful refrain, offers profound reassurance. Just as God faithfully provided a physical heritage for Israel, He promises a spiritual inheritance to believers in Christ. This verse reminds us:
This verse, like the entire psalm, calls us to constant thanksgiving, acknowledging that every good gift and every fulfilled promise flows from the unending wellspring of God's steadfast love.