For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
PSALMS 100:5KJVWhat does Psalms 100:5 mean?
Psalms 100:5 says that the LORD is good, his mercy lasts forever, and his truth continues for every generation. This verse highlights God's unchanging character—his kindness, faithful love, and reliability are not limited by time or circumstance.
The psalm is a song of praise, likely used in worship at the temple in Jerusalem. The speaker is calling everyone to recognize and celebrate who God is. By stating that God’s mercy and truth endure, the verse reassures people that God’s promises and care are dependable for all people, now and in the future.
The Hebrew behind Psalms 100:5
- LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a close, covenant relationship with his people.
- mercy (חֶסֶד, chesed): This word often means steadfast love or loyal kindness, not just simple mercy. It points to God’s committed, faithful love that does not give up.
- everlasting (עוֹלָם, olam): This term means something lasting through all time, not just a long time. It stresses that God’s mercy never runs out.
- truth (אֱמוּנָה, emunah): This word can mean faithfulness or reliability, not just truth as in “not lying.” It highlights that God can always be trusted to keep his word.
- generations (דּוֹר, dor): This refers to all groups of people through time, showing that God’s faithfulness is not just for one group or era but for everyone, always.
Why Psalms 100:5 matters
- Psalms 100:5 clarifies that God’s goodness and faithfulness are not temporary or limited to a certain people; they are ongoing and for all generations.
- The verse emphasizes that God’s character—his kindness and reliability—are the foundation for trust and praise, not just his actions.
- By connecting mercy and truth, the verse shows that God’s love is both deeply caring and firmly dependable, which reassures anyone who wonders if God’s promises still apply today.