Psalms 118:2
Psalms 118:2 in Multiple Translations
Let Israel say, “His loving devotion endures forever.”
Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
Let Israel now say, That his lovingkindness endureth for ever.
Let Israel now say, that his mercy is unchanging for ever.
Let all Israel say, “His trustworthy love lasts forever.”
Let Israel now say, That his mercy endureth for euer.
I pray you, let Israel say, That, to the age [is] His kindness.
Let Israel now say that his loving kindness endures forever.
Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
Blessed are they who search his testimonies: that seek him with their whole heart.
You Israeli people should repeatedly shout, “He faithfully loves us, his people, forever!”
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 118:2
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 118:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
יֹֽאמַר
נָ֥א
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
כִּ֖י
לְ/עוֹלָ֣ם
חַסְדּֽ/וֹ
יֹֽאמַר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
V-Qal-Juss-3ms
נָ֥א
nâʼ
H4994
please
Part
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
כִּ֖י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
לְ/עוֹלָ֣ם
ʻôwlâm
H5769
forever
Prep | N-ms
חַסְדּֽ/וֹ
chêçêd
H2617
kindness
N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 118:2
יֹֽאמַר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
V-Qal-Juss-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
נָ֥א
nâʼ
H4994
"please"
Part
The Hebrew word 'nâ'' is used to express a polite request, like 'please' or 'I pray', and is often added to verbs to make them more polite. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Ezra's reading of the law to the people.
Definition: 1) I (we) pray, now, please 1a) used in entreaty or exhortation
Usage: Occurs in 374 OT verses. KJV: I beseech (pray) thee (you), go to, now, oh. See also: Genesis 12:11; Judges 4:19; 1 Kings 13:6.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
כִּ֖י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
לְ/עוֹלָ֣ם
ʻôwlâm
H5769
"forever"
Prep | N-ms
This word means forever or always, describing something that lasts an eternity. It is used in the Bible to describe God's eternal nature and his lasting promises.
Definition: : old/ancient 1) long duration, antiquity, futurity, for ever, ever, everlasting, evermore, perpetual, old, ancient, world 1a) ancient time, long time (of past) 1b) (of future) 1b1) for ever, always 1b2) continuous existence, perpetual 1b3) everlasting, indefinite or unending future, eternity
Usage: Occurs in 413 OT verses. KJV: alway(-s), ancient (time), any more, continuance, eternal, (for, (n-)) ever(-lasting, -more, of old), lasting, long (time), (of) old (time), perpetual, at any time, (beginning of the) world ([phrase] without end). Compare H5331 (נֶצַח), H5703 (עַד). See also: Genesis 3:22; 1 Kings 8:13; Psalms 5:12.
חַסְדּֽ/וֹ
chêçêd
H2617
"kindness"
N-ms | Suff
This word refers to kindness, mercy, or pity, often used to describe God's loving actions towards humanity. It is translated as 'favour', 'kindness', or 'mercy' in the KJV. It emphasizes God's loving character.
Definition: goodness, kindness, faithfulness
Usage: Occurs in 241 OT verses. KJV: favour, good deed(-liness, -ness), kindly, (loving-) kindness, merciful (kindness), mercy, pity, reproach, wicked thing. See also: Genesis 19:19; Psalms 51:3; Psalms 5:8.
Study Notes — Psalms 118:2
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 118:2 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 118:2
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 118:2
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
- Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 118:2
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 118:2
- Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
- Sermons on Psalms 118:2
Context — The LORD Is on My Side
1Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.
2Let Israel say, “His loving devotion endures forever.”
3Let the house of Aaron say, “His loving devotion endures forever.” 4Let those who fear the LORD say, “His loving devotion endures forever.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 115:9–11 | O Israel, trust in the LORD! He is their help and shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD! He is their help and shield. You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and shield. |
| 2 | Psalms 145:10 | All You have made will give You thanks, O LORD, and Your saints will bless You. |
| 3 | Psalms 135:19–20 | O house of Israel, bless the LORD; O house of Aaron, bless the LORD; O house of Levi, bless the LORD; you who fear the LORD, bless the LORD! |
| 4 | Psalms 147:19–20 | He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and judgments to Israel. He has done this for no other nation; they do not know His judgments. Hallelujah! |
| 5 | 1 Peter 2:9–10 | But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. |
| 6 | Galatians 6:16 | Peace and mercy to all who walk by this rule, even to the Israel of God. |
| 7 | Hebrews 13:15 | Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name. |
Psalms 118:2 Summary
This verse is calling Israel to remember and declare that God's love and care will never end. It's like God is saying, 'I will always be with you and love you, no matter what.' This is a truth that we can all cling to, just like Israel, and it's a reminder that God is faithful and trustworthy, as seen in Psalms 100:5 and Lamentations 3:22-23. By trusting in God's enduring love, we can find comfort and hope in any situation, and we can share that love with others, just as Jesus taught us to love God and love our neighbors in Matthew 22:37-40.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that God's loving devotion endures forever?
This means that God's love and care for us will never fade or come to an end, as seen in Psalms 136:1 and Jeremiah 31:3, which remind us of God's eternal and unwavering love.
Why is Israel specifically mentioned in this verse?
Israel is mentioned because they are God's chosen people, and as such, they have a special role in declaring God's praise and character, as seen in Exodus 19:5-6 and Deuteronomy 7:6.
How can we apply the truth of God's enduring love in our daily lives?
We can apply this truth by trusting in God's faithfulness, even in difficult times, and by sharing His love with others, just as Israel is called to do in this verse, and as encouraged in Matthew 22:37-40 and 1 John 4:19.
What is the significance of repeating the phrase 'His loving devotion endures forever' in this passage?
The repetition of this phrase emphasizes its importance and serves as a reminder to the people of God, including Israel, the house of Aaron, and those who fear the Lord, as seen in Psalms 118:1-4, to always trust in and declare God's enduring love, as also seen in Psalms 100:5 and Lamentations 3:22-23.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I have experienced God's loving devotion in my life, and how can I share those stories with others?
- How does the truth of God's enduring love give me hope and comfort in times of uncertainty or struggle?
- In what ways can I, like Israel, declare God's praise and character to those around me, and what role can I play in sharing His love with others?
- How can I cultivate a deeper sense of trust and faith in God's loving devotion, especially when faced with challenges or doubts?
- What are some practical ways I can apply the truth of Psalms 118:2 in my relationships with others, and how can I demonstrate God's love to those around me?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 118:2
Let Israel now say, that his mercy [endureth] for ever. Let such who have had an experience of it acknowledge and declare it to others; not only believe in it with their hearts, and privately give
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 118:2
Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let Israel ... the house of Aaron ... them now that fear the Lord, say ... The same division as in Psalms 115:9-11, where see note. Compare Psalms 100:4-5.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
Israel, after the flesh, all the tribes and people of Israel, except the Levites.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
Psalms 118:2 Let Israel now say, that his mercy [endureth] for ever.Ver. 2. Let Israel now say] All the Israel of God, for only such are fit to praise God: excellent words become not a fool; the leper’ s lips are to be covered.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
(1-4) Comp. Psalms 115:9-13, where a similar choral arrangement is found.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
Verse 2. Let Israel now say] Seeing the hand of the Lord so visibly, and the deliverance gained, that God's mercy endureth for ever.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 118:2
1–4. An introductory call to all Israel to join in praising Jehovah for His unfailing goodness.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 118:2
Let Israel now say ... - The Hebrew people; the people of God. They have now, in my case, a new illustration of the mercy of God which ought to animate them, and to encourage their hearts. Compare Psalms 115:9.
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 118:2
1-4. In this introduction, or joyful call upon all to join in the praises of God, the same enumeration of “Israel,” “the house of Aaron,” and “those who fear God,” is made as in Psalms 115:11, which see.
Sermons on Psalms 118:2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Exposition on Psalm 119 by St. Augustine | St. Augustine preaches about the importance of seeking bliss through being undefiled in the way of the Lord, walking in His law. He emphasizes the need to be blessed by being undef |
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Psalm 115 by Henry Law | Henry Law preaches on the acknowledgment of man's utter nothingness and the all-encompassing power of God. He emphasizes the vanity of idols and the importance of placing all confi |
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Creation-Providence-Redemption - Part 1 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker marvels at the intricate design of the human body and the wonders of God's creation. He expresses gratitude for the gift of eyesight and emphasizes the |
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The Providence of God-01 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about his friend Billy Bray, who was in Bangkok, Thailand to serve the Lord but also worked as a writer for Time Magazine and Newsweek. O |
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Wonders of Creation Redemption - Part 1 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the wonders of God in creation and emphasizes the need to have greater thoughts of God. He mentions the extraordinary coordination of mind, |
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The Origin of Man - Antiquity of Man Part 1 by John Murray | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose of the chronological data in Genesis 5 and Genesis 11. They argue that these genealogies are condensed and not intended to provide |
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Wonders of God-01 in Creation by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the wonders of God in creation, specifically focusing on the human body. He highlights how the human body is often referred to as |