King James Version

What Does Psalms 136:18 Mean?

Psalms 136:18 in the King James Version says “And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 136 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:”

Psalms 136:18 · KJV

Context

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:

18

And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:

19

Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever:

20

And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever:

Read Psalms 136 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:...—Slew mighty kings - defeating powerful enemies. 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 · 6 words
וַֽ֭יַּהֲרֹג1 of 6

“And slew”

H2026

to smite with deadly intent

מְלָכִ֣ים2 of 6

“kings”

H4428

a king

אַדִּירִ֑ים3 of 6

“famous”

H117

wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful

כִּ֖י4 of 6
H3588

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

לְעוֹלָ֣ם5 of 6

“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׃6 of 6

“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 136:18 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 136:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 29:7

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