King James Version

What Does Psalms 136:15 Mean?

Psalms 136:15 in the King James Version says “But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. overthrew: Heb. shaked off — study this verse from Psalms chapter 136 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. overthrew: Heb. shaked off

Psalms 136:15 · KJV


Context

13

To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever:

14

And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever:

15

But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. overthrew: Heb. shaked off

16

To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever.

17

To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endur...—Pharaoh's army overthrown - complete victory. For his mercy endureth for ever (כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ, ki le-olam chasdo). This refrain, repeated 26 times, transforms history into worship. Each event becomes evidence of God's eternal chesed (steadfast covenant love). The psalm teaches that recounting salvation history should evoke gratitude, showing God's character remains unchanging.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Psalm 136, the Great Hallel, recounts salvation from creation through providence. Sung at Passover and festivals with antiphonal structure (cantor and congregation), it trained Israel to see history through the lens of God's enduring mercy. Every generation learned their identity through this recitation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does repeatedly saying "his mercy endures forever" after each historical event transform your perspective?
  2. What events in your life can you recount with the refrain "for his mercy endures forever"?
  3. How does this psalm challenge viewing history as random versus providentially unfolding divine faithfulness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְנִ֘עֵ֤ר1 of 8

But overthrew

H5287

to tumble about

פַּרְעֹ֣ה2 of 8

Pharaoh

H6547

paroh, a general title of egyptian kings

וְחֵיל֣וֹ3 of 8

and his host

H2428

probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

בְיַם4 of 8

sea

H3220

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

ס֑וּף5 of 8

in the Red

H5488

a reed, especially the papyrus

כִּ֖י6 of 8
H3588

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

לְעוֹלָ֣ם7 of 8

endureth for ever

H5769

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

חַסְדּֽוֹ׃8 of 8

for his mercy

H2617

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty


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 136:15 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 136:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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