Psalms 36:5

¶ Thy mercy, O LORD, [is] in the heavens; [and] thy faithfulness [reacheth] unto the clouds.

Thy mercy {H2617}, O LORD {H3068}, is in the heavens {H8064}; and thy faithfulness {H530} reacheth unto the clouds {H7834}.

ADONAI, in the heavens is your grace; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds.

Thy lovingkindness, O Jehovah, is in the heavens; Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the skies.

Commentary on Psalm 36:5 (KJV):

Context

Psalm 36 presents a striking contrast between the depravity of the wicked (verses 1-4) and the glorious, abundant nature of God (verses 5-9). Verse 5 is the beginning of the psalmist's focus on the LORD's character, setting the stage for describing His goodness, light, and provision. It moves from observing the sinfulness of humanity to declaring the infinite perfections of the Divine.

Key Themes

  • God's Boundless Mercy: The phrase "Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens" emphasizes the immense and immeasurable nature of God's lovingkindness. It is not limited by earthly constraints but reaches to the highest points, signifying its vastness and freeness. This attribute of God is a central theme throughout the Psalms and the Bible, often linked to His covenant relationship with His people.
  • God's Unfailing Faithfulness: Similarly, "thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds" highlights the reliability and trustworthiness of God. Just as the clouds are high above the earth, God's truth and dependability are elevated above human inconsistency. His promises and character are steadfast and reliable, providing a firm foundation for those who trust in Him. This faithfulness is the basis of hope and security for believers.
  • The Exaltation of God's Attributes: By using the imagery of heavens and clouds, the psalmist portrays God's attributes as being supremely high and vast, far beyond human comprehension or limitation. This underscores His transcendence and majesty.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "mercy," which translates the Hebrew word chesed (חֶסֶד). Chesed is a rich term meaning more than just pity; it encompasses steadfast love, lovingkindness, covenant loyalty, and grace. It describes God's active, faithful love towards His people, often within the framework of a covenant relationship. The word for "faithfulness" is emunah (אֱמוּנָה), which denotes firmness, reliability, and trustworthiness. It's the same root from which we get "Amen," signifying truth and certainty. The psalmist uses these terms to underscore the depth and stability of God's character.

Reflection

Psalm 36:5 offers profound comfort and assurance. In a world marked by inconsistency and broken promises, this verse reminds us that God's mercy endures and His faithfulness is absolute. It encourages us to look beyond earthly troubles and uncertainties to the vastness of God's character. His love and reliability are as high and expansive as the heavens and the clouds, providing an unshakeable foundation for our hope and trust. Reflecting on this verse can deepen our understanding of God's nature and strengthen our faith in His unwavering goodness.

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 100:5

    For the LORD [is] good; his mercy [is] everlasting; and his truth [endureth] to all generations.

  • Psalms 108:4

    For thy mercy [is] great above the heavens: and thy truth [reacheth] unto the clouds.

  • Psalms 103:11

    For as the heaven is high above the earth, [so] great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

  • Psalms 57:10

    For thy mercy [is] great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.

  • Psalms 89:2

    For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

  • Hebrews 6:18

    That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

  • Hebrews 6:20

    Whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

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