King James Version

What Does Psalms 106:46 Mean?

Psalms 106:46 in the King James Version says “He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captives. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 106 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captives.

Psalms 106:46 · KJV


Context

44

Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry:

45

And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.

46

He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captives.

47

Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise.

48

Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the LORD. Praise: Heb. Hallelujah


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse describes an additional mercy beyond deliverance. 'He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captives' means God softened oppressors' hearts toward captive Israel. Even in exile and dispersion, God moved pagan rulers to show compassion. This was fulfilled in Persian kings who allowed return and rebuilding (Ezra, Nehemiah), and in various diaspora contexts where Jews found favor. God's sovereignty extends to controlling enemies' attitudes—He can grant favor even in hostile contexts (Proverbs 21:1). This demonstrates that no circumstance is beyond God's reach to show kindness to His people. Even in judgment, mercy intrudes.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Cyrus's decree permitting return from Babylon (Ezra 1:1-4) and providing resources for Temple rebuilding fulfilled this. God 'stirred up the spirit of Cyrus' to act favorably toward Jews. Artaxerxes similarly favored Ezra and Nehemiah. Even during exile, Jews like Daniel, Esther, and Nehemiah found favor in pagan courts. This pattern continued through church history—God grants His persecuted people favor even with hostile authorities, demonstrating His sovereignty and care.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's ability to grant favor with enemies demonstrate His sovereignty?
  2. In what ways have you experienced God's favor in hostile or difficult circumstances?
  3. How should this promise affect believers living under oppressive or hostile authorities?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וַיִּתֵּ֣ן1 of 6

He made

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

אוֹתָ֣ם2 of 6
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

לְרַחֲמִ֑ים3 of 6

them also to be pitied

H7356

compassion (in the plural)

לִ֝פְנֵ֗י4 of 6

of

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

כָּל5 of 6
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

שׁוֹבֵיהֶֽם׃6 of 6

all those that carried them captives

H7617

to transport into captivity


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 106:46 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 106:46 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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