King James Version

What Does Psalms 136:2 Mean?

Psalms 136:2 in the King James Version says “O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 136 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Psalms 136:2 · KJV


Context

1

O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

2

O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.

3

O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.

4

To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever." This verse employs a Hebrew title Elohei ha'elohim (God of gods), asserting YHWH's supreme deity over all so-called gods. Elohim can refer to the true God or false gods/idols; Elohei ha'elohim declares Him God above all divine claimants. This confronts ancient polytheism—while nations worshiped many deities, Israel's God reigns supreme. Deuteronomy 10:17 similarly calls Him "God of gods, and Lord of lords." The refrain ki le'olam chasdo (for forever His mercy/lovingkindness) emphasizes that YHWH's covenant faithfulness never fails. Unlike capricious pagan deities, YHWH demonstrates steadfast, enduring mercy. The psalm's structure (26 verses, each ending with this refrain) creates liturgical emphasis through repetition—God's mercy is the constant theme regardless of which saving act is recounted.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern cultures practiced polytheism, with pantheons of gods governing different realms—sky gods, fertility goddesses, war deities, local patron gods. Treaties invoked multiple gods as witnesses. Israel stood radically apart in affirming YHWH alone as true God (Deuteronomy 6:4). The first commandment forbade other gods (Exodus 20:3); prophets mocked idols as powerless (Isaiah 44:9-20, Jeremiah 10:1-16). Psalm 136 likely served as temple liturgy, possibly for Passover, Feast of Tabernacles, or other festivals recounting God's saving acts. The repetitive structure aided corporate worship and memorization.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does affirming God as "God of gods" challenge modern forms of idolatry (money, power, pleasure, success)?
  2. What difference does it make that the supreme God is characterized by enduring mercy rather than capricious wrath?
  3. How can repetitive liturgical worship (like this Psalm's refrain) deepen rather than deaden spiritual engagement?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
ה֭וֹדוּ1 of 6

O give thanks

H3034

physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha

הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים2 of 6

of gods

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים3 of 6

of gods

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

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 136:2 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 136:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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