Psalms 79:13

KJV

So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations.

KJV (with Strong's)

So we thy people {H5971} and sheep {H6629} of thy pasture {H4830} will give thee thanks {H3034}{H8686)} for ever {H5769}: we will shew forth {H5608}{H8762)} thy praise {H8416} to all {H1755} generations {H1755}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then we, your people and the flock in your pasture, will give you thanks forever. From generation to generation we will proclaim your praise.

Berean Standard Bible

Then we Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; from generation to generation we will declare Your praise.

American Standard Version

So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture Will give thee thanks for ever: We will show forth thy praise to all generations.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 79:13 serves as the climactic and redemptive declaration within a communal lament, articulating a profound and perpetual commitment to thanksgiving and praise despite overwhelming national catastrophe. It marks a pivotal transition from impassioned pleas for divine intervention and vengeance to an unwavering vow of eternal gratitude, rooted in the enduring covenant relationship between God and His people, affirming their identity as His cherished flock.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 79 is a communal lament, strategically placed within the third book of Psalms (Psalms 73-89). It immediately follows [Psalm 78](/psalms/78 "Psalm 78 - Israel's History of Rebellion and God's Faithfulness"), which recounts Israel's history of rebellion and God's unwavering faithfulness, and precedes [Psalm 80](/psalms/80 "Psalm 80 - A Prayer for Restoration"), another poignant lament for national restoration. The preceding verses of Psalm 79 (verses 1-12) vividly depict the horrific destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, the brutal slaughter of God's people, and the taunts of surrounding nations. The psalm begins with a desperate cry for God to remember His covenant, avenge His people, and restore His honor. Verse 13, therefore, functions as a powerful, faith-filled resolution, shifting the focus from the enemy's actions and Israel's profound suffering to an affirmation of God's enduring ownership and a commitment to perpetual worship, even amidst the ruins. It is a testament to the resilient hope and theological turning point that often punctuates psalms of lament, moving from anguish to a renewed posture of trust and praise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The psalm is widely believed to have been composed in the immediate aftermath of the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple in 586 BC, a cataclysmic event for the people of Judah. This period was marked by immense suffering, national humiliation, and a profound theological crisis as God's chosen city and dwelling place lay in ruins. The surrounding nations, particularly Edom, Ammon, and Moab, often rejoiced in Israel's downfall, mocking their God and His apparent inability to protect His people, as explicitly alluded to in [Psalm 79:4](/psalms/79-4 "Psalm 79:4 - We are a reproach to our neighbours"). In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the honor (or shame) of a deity was inextricably linked to the prosperity (or downfall) of their people. Thus, the desecration of the Temple and the suffering of Israel were seen as a direct affront to Yahweh's name and reputation. In this dire context, the declaration of perpetual praise in verse 13 is not a naive denial of reality but a profound act of covenant faithfulness and defiance against despair, affirming God's ultimate sovereignty and His people's enduring identity despite the dire circumstances. It is a bold counter-narrative to the taunts of the nations.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several major themes prevalent throughout the Psalms and the broader Old Testament narrative. The core theme of **Divine Ownership and Care** is profoundly expressed through the metaphor of "thy people and sheep of thy pasture." This imagery echoes the deep, intimate relationship God has with Israel, portraying Him as a benevolent shepherd and provider, even in times of profound distress. It underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, regardless of their circumstances. Another crucial theme is **Enduring Gratitude and Praise**, emphasizing that worship is not conditional upon favorable circumstances but is an eternal posture of the faithful, rooted in God's unchanging character and promises. Finally, the declaration "we will shew forth thy praise to all generations" highlights the vital theme of **Intergenerational Faith Transmission**. It underscores the solemn responsibility of the current generation to recount God's mighty acts and character, ensuring that future generations will also know, remember, and praise Him, thereby maintaining the continuity of God's covenant community through time, a theme powerfully echoed in [Psalm 78:4](/psalms/78-4 "Psalm 78:4 - We will not hide them from their children").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sheep (Hebrew, _tsôʼn'_):** (H6629) This term refers to a collective name for a flock of sheep or goats, and figuratively, of men. In this context, it powerfully signifies Israel as God's flock. This imagery emphasizes the people's dependence on God for guidance, provision, and protection, much like sheep rely entirely on their shepherd. It underscores a relationship of intimate care and divine responsibility.
* **Pasture (Hebrew, _mirʻîyth'_):** (H4830) Derived from a root meaning "to feed," this word denotes pasturage or a place of feeding. When combined with "sheep," it evokes the imagery of a shepherd providing sustenance and security for his flock. It highlights God's role as the benevolent provider who sustains His people, even when they are in a desolate state, emphasizing His tender care and faithful provision.
* **Shew forth (Hebrew, _çâphar'_):** (H5608) This primitive root means "to score with a mark as a tally or record," and by implication, "to inscribe," "to enumerate," or "to recount." Intensively, it means "to celebrate" or "to declare." In Psalms 79:13, it implies an active, verbal, and public proclamation of God's praise and mighty deeds. It is not merely a passive acknowledgment but a deliberate act of testifying to God's character and works, intended for a wide audience and, crucially, for future generations. It signifies the active transmission of divine truth and the perpetuation of worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture":** This opening clause firmly establishes the identity of the speakers and their intimate relationship with God. "We" refers to the community of Israel, who, despite their profound suffering and national humiliation, affirm their status as God's chosen "people" (`H5971, 'am'`) and, more intimately, as the "sheep of thy pasture." This dual identification emphasizes both their covenantal election and their complete dependence on God as their divine Shepherd, highlighting His ownership and tender, protective care.
* **"will give thee thanks for ever":** This phrase expresses an unwavering commitment to perpetual gratitude. The Hebrew "for ever" (`H5769, ʻôwlâm'`) denotes an unending duration, signifying that their thanksgiving is not conditional on immediate circumstances or temporary relief but is an eternal posture rooted in God's unchanging faithfulness and character. It is a solemn vow of enduring worship that transcends the present crisis.
* **"we will shew forth thy praise to all generations":** This concluding clause articulates a solemn vow to actively transmit the knowledge and praise of God to future generations. "Shew forth" (`H5608, çâphar'`) implies a continuous, verbal proclamation of God's mighty acts and praiseworthy attributes. The commitment "to all generations" (`H1755, dôwr'`) underscores the intergenerational responsibility to ensure that God's glory and redemptive history are never forgotten, fostering a perpetual legacy of faith and worship within the covenant community.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 79:13 employs several powerful literary devices that amplify its message of enduring faith. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the rich imagery of "sheep of thy pasture," which beautifully portrays God as the caring Shepherd and Israel as His dependent flock. This metaphor communicates intimacy, provision, and protection, standing in stark contrast to the preceding verses that describe Israel's vulnerability and suffering at the hands of their enemies. While the psalm as a whole is a **Communal Lament**, verse 13 marks a significant shift towards **Communal Praise and Vow**, demonstrating a profound theological turn from anguish and petition to resolute faith and commitment. The use of phrases like "for ever" and "to all generations" employs **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis** to underscore the absolute and unending nature of their commitment to praise, transcending the immediate crisis and extending into eternity. The repetition of "we will" creates a strong sense of **Resolution** and collective determination, solidifying the community's unified purpose and corporate identity in worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 79:13 stands as a powerful testament to the enduring nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people, even in the face of profound national devastation. It underscores the theological truth that true worship is not contingent upon favorable circumstances but springs from an unshakeable identity as God's cherished flock and a deep understanding of His unchanging character. The verse transitions from a desperate plea for divine intervention to a resolute commitment to perpetual praise, demonstrating that faith finds its anchor in God's sovereignty and faithfulness, regardless of present suffering. This commitment to "shew forth thy praise to all generations" highlights the vital responsibility of intergenerational discipleship, ensuring that the knowledge of God's mighty acts and His redemptive story continues through time, fostering an enduring legacy of worship and testimony within the community of faith.

* [Psalm 23:1](/psalms/23-1 "Psalm 23:1 - The Lord is my Shepherd")
* [Psalm 100:3](/psalms/100-3 "Psalm 100:3 - We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture")
* [Psalm 145:4](/psalms/145-4 "Psalm 145:4 - One generation shall praise thy works to another")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 79:13 offers profound and timeless lessons for believers navigating personal and collective adversity. It challenges us to embrace a posture of unwavering praise and thanksgiving, not as a denial of suffering, but as a defiant act of faith rooted in God's unchanging character and His enduring covenant. In moments of distress, this verse reminds us that our identity as "the people and sheep of His pasture" provides immense comfort and security, knowing we are under the direct, loving care of our divine Shepherd. Furthermore, it lays upon us the sacred responsibility to actively "shew forth His praise to all generations." This means intentionally living out our faith, sharing our testimonies, and teaching the truths of God's Word to those who come after us, ensuring that the legacy of faith continues to flourish. Our corporate worship, like the communal lament and praise of this psalm, strengthens our collective identity and proclaims God's greatness to a watching world, inviting others to join in this eternal praise.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving and praise even when facing difficult circumstances, as exemplified in this psalm?**
* **In what ways do I recognize myself as "a sheep of His pasture," and how does this identity impact my sense of security and trust in God?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "shew forth God's praise to all generations" within my family, church, and community?**
* **How does understanding the historical context of this psalm deepen my appreciation for the resilience of faith in the face of overwhelming adversity?**

### FAQ

**Why is this verse of praise found in a lament psalm?**

Answer: Psalms 79:13 is climactic because it represents a profound theological shift within the lament. While the preceding verses express deep anguish, anger, and pleas for vengeance, this final verse pivots to a declaration of unwavering faith and commitment to praise. This transition is characteristic of many lament psalms, which often move from complaint to confidence, from petition to praise. It signifies that even in the darkest moments, the psalmist (and by extension, the community) retains an underlying trust in God's covenant faithfulness and His ultimate sovereignty. It's an act of faith that chooses to affirm God's character and their identity as His people, regardless of the immediate circumstances, anticipating future deliverance and restoration. This demonstrates a mature faith that does not deny suffering but transcends it through worship, echoing the pattern seen in other laments like [Psalm 13](/psalms/13 "Psalm 13 - From Lament to Trust").

**What does "sheep of thy pasture" mean for believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, the phrase "sheep of thy pasture" carries profound theological and pastoral significance. It signifies an intimate, personal relationship with God, who is our Good Shepherd. Just as a shepherd knows, guides, feeds, and protects his flock, God intimately knows us, provides for our needs, leads us through life's challenges, and offers us security and belonging. This imagery assures us of God's tender care, even when we feel lost or vulnerable. It reminds us that we are not merely individuals but part of God's chosen flock, the Church, under the loving authority of Christ, the ultimate Shepherd of our souls, as described in [1 Peter 2:25](/1_peter/2-25 "1 Peter 2:25 - You were like sheep going astray, but now have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls"). It calls us to trust His leading, rely on His provision, and remain within His fold, finding peace and purpose in His divine care.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 79:13, with its declaration of perpetual praise from "thy people and sheep of thy pasture," finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The profound imagery of God as the Shepherd and His people as the flock is powerfully embodied in Christ, who declares Himself the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus the Good Shepherd"). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus gathers a new covenant community, not just from Israel but from every nation, making them His own "sheep" who "hear His voice" and "follow Him" ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My sheep hear my voice")). The "thanks for ever" and the solemn vow to "shew forth thy praise to all generations" are realized in the ongoing worship of the Church, the body of Christ, which proclaims His excellencies "from generation to generation" until His glorious return ([Ephesians 3:21](/ephesians/3-21 "Ephesians 3:21 - To Him be glory in the church throughout all generations")). Furthermore, the eschatological vision of the New Testament reveals a multitude from every tribe and tongue perpetually giving thanks and praise to God and the Lamb in the heavenly realms, fulfilling the "for ever" aspect of this psalm in an eternal, cosmic worship ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - Worship of the Lamb")). Thus, the lamenting people of God in Psalm 79, through their enduring faith, foreshadow the redeemed community in Christ, whose praise is not merely a response to deliverance from temporal enemies but an eternal adoration for the Lamb who has delivered them from sin and death, securing their place in His eternal pasture.

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

Psalms 95:7

¶ For he [is] our God; and we [are] the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,

Isaiah 43:21

This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.

Psalms 74:1

¶ Maschil of Asaph. O God, why hast thou cast [us] off for ever? [why] doth thine anger smoke against the sheep of thy pasture?

Psalms 100:3

Know ye that the LORD he [is] God: [it is] he [that] hath made us, and not we ourselves; [we are] his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalms 145:4

One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.

Psalms 45:17

I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever.

Psalms 44:8

In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.