Psalms 135:4

For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, [and] Israel for his peculiar treasure.

For the LORD {H3050} hath chosen {H977} Jacob {H3290} unto himself, and Israel {H3478} for his peculiar treasure {H5459}.

For Yah chose Ya'akov for himself, Isra'el as his own unique treasure.

For the LORD has chosen Jacob as His own, Israel as His treasured possession.

For Jehovah hath chosen Jacob unto himself, AndIsrael for his own possession.

Commentary

Psalms 135:4 KJV declares a foundational truth about God's relationship with His chosen people, Israel: "For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, [and] Israel for his peculiar treasure." This verse beautifully encapsulates God's sovereign election and the unique, cherished status of the nation He set apart.

Context

Psalm 135 is a psalm of praise, likely used in temple worship, that recounts God's mighty acts throughout history. It begins with a call to praise the Lord and then lists various reasons for that praise: God's greatness above all gods, His works in creation, His judgment on Egypt, His deliverance of Israel from bondage, and His giving of the Promised Land. Verse 4 serves as a theological anchor, explaining why God performed these great deeds for Israel—because He chose them. It sets the stage for understanding God's specific interventions on behalf of His covenant people, distinguishing them from other nations.

Key Themes

  • Divine Election and Sovereignty: The verse emphasizes that God's choice of Jacob (the patriarch, representing the nation of Israel) was entirely His own initiative. It was not based on Israel's merit or strength but on God's sovereign will and love. This highlights God as the active agent in establishing His relationship with humanity.
  • Israel's Special Status: Being called God's "peculiar treasure" signifies a unique and intimate relationship. Israel was set apart from all other nations to be God's special possession, entrusted with His law and promises. This status came with both privilege and responsibility.
  • God's Faithfulness to His Covenant: The choice of Jacob/Israel points back to God's unconditional covenant with Abraham, which God faithfully upheld through generations. This verse is a reminder of God's enduring commitment to His promises and His people.

Linguistic Insight

The key phrase in the King James Version, "peculiar treasure," translates the Hebrew word segullah (סְגֻלָּה). This term is rich in meaning and conveys the idea of a "special possession," "treasured property," or "private wealth." It refers to something of immense value that is carefully guarded and highly prized. It implies exclusivity and preciousness, much like a king's personal jewels or most valuable assets. The use of segullah here underscores God's deep affection and intimate ownership of Israel, treating them as His most valuable possession among all peoples.

Cross-References & Significance

  • This concept of Israel as God's special possession is first powerfully articulated in Exodus 19:5, where God tells Israel at Mount Sinai, "Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people." This established the covenantal basis for their unique relationship.
  • The theme is reiterated in Deuteronomy 7:6, which states, "For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth." This verse emphasizes God's love as the reason for their choice.
  • In the New Testament, the concept of being a "peculiar people" or "treasured possession" is spiritually extended to all believers in Christ. 1 Peter 2:9 declares, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." This verse applies the privileges and responsibilities of God's chosen to the Church, composed of both Jew and Gentile who believe in Jesus.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 135:4 serves as a powerful reminder of our identity in Christ. Just as ancient Israel was God's "peculiar treasure," so too are those who are in Christ. We are not chosen because of our merit, but because of God's grace and sovereign love. This truth should instill a deep sense of security, value, and purpose. It calls us to live in a way that honors our identity as God's beloved possession, reflecting His character and proclaiming His praises to the world. Understanding that we are eternally chosen and treasured by God provides immense comfort and motivates us to live lives of obedience and devotion.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 2:9 (10 votes)

    But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

  • Deuteronomy 10:15 (8 votes)

    Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, [even] you above all people, as [it is] this day.

  • Malachi 3:17 (5 votes)

    And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

  • Deuteronomy 7:6 (5 votes)

    For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that [are] upon the face of the earth.

  • Deuteronomy 7:7 (5 votes)

    The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye [were] the fewest of all people:

  • 1 Samuel 12:22 (4 votes)

    For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

  • Isaiah 43:20 (4 votes)

    The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, [and] rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen.