King James Version

What Does Psalms 135:14 Mean?

Psalms 135:14 in the King James Version says “For the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 135 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

For the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants.

Psalms 135:14 · KJV


Context

12

And gave their land for an heritage, an heritage unto Israel his people.

13

Thy name, O LORD, endureth for ever; and thy memorial, O LORD, throughout all generations. throughout: Heb. to generation and generation

14

For the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants.

15

The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.

16

They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God's relationship with His people receives tender expression: 'the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants.' The Hebrew 'din' (judge) here carries the sense of vindication and defense rather than condemnation - God will execute justice on behalf of His people against their oppressors. The phrase 'repent himself' (yitnecham) regarding His servants indicates God's compassionate response to their suffering, not a change of mind due to error. This same language appears in Deuteronomy 32:36, a Song of Moses passage this psalm echoes. God's 'judgment' is good news for His covenant people; His 'repentance' means He will relent from discipline when they return to Him. The verse balances divine justice with divine compassion. Hebrews 10:30 quotes this passage, applying it to the church as God's covenant community awaiting vindication.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This verse quotes Deuteronomy 32:36 nearly verbatim, drawing from Moses' final song. The concept of God 'repenting' or 'relenting' appears throughout Scripture (Exodus 32:14; Jonah 3:10) and refers to God responding appropriately to changed circumstances while remaining consistent in His character. It emphasizes God's personal, relational engagement with His people.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God "judge" or vindicate His people today?
  2. In what ways has God shown you compassion as His servant?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
כִּֽי1 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יָדִ֣ין2 of 7

will judge

H1777

to rule; by implication to judge (as umpire); also to strive (as at law)

יְהוָ֣ה3 of 7

For the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

עַמּ֑וֹ4 of 7

his people

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וְעַל5 of 7
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

עֲ֝בָדָ֗יו6 of 7

himself concerning his servants

H5650

a servant

יִתְנֶחָֽם׃7 of 7

and he will repent

H5162

properly, to sigh, i.e., breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e., (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavo


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 135:14 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 135:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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