But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;

PSALMS 103:17KJV
Know the Bible

Psalms 103:17 (KJV)

What does Psalms 103:17 mean?

Psalms 103:17 says that the LORD’s mercy lasts forever for those who respect and honor Him, and that His righteousness continues on to future generations. The verse highlights the enduring nature of God’s kindness and fairness, not just for one person but for their descendants as well.

King David is speaking in this psalm, addressing the people of Israel and reflecting on God’s character. The verse comes in a section where David is praising God for His compassion and faithfulness, especially toward those who “fear” Him—meaning those who revere and take God seriously. The mention of “children’s children” emphasizes that God’s goodness is not short-lived but stretches across generations.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 103:17

  • mercy (חֶסֶד, ḥesed): This word is often understood as steadfast love or loyal kindness, not just a feeling but a committed, faithful love that endures.
  • everlasting (עוֹלָם, ʿolam): Used twice here, this word means something like “forever” or “from age to age,” stressing that God’s mercy has no end points.
  • fear (יָרֵא, yare’): This word means to deeply respect or stand in awe of God, not just to be afraid, but to honor Him in daily life.
  • righteousness (צְדָקָה, tsedaqah): This means doing what is right and just, and here it refers to God’s consistent goodness and fairness, which He shows to future generations.

Why Psalms 103:17 matters

  • Psalms 103:17 corrects the idea that God’s mercy is temporary or limited to one group; it stresses that His kindness is ongoing and generational.
  • The verse highlights that God’s faithfulness is tied to those who “fear” Him, clarifying that this relationship is based on respect and reverence, not just ritual or heritage.
  • In the context of the psalm, this verse reassures readers that God’s character does not change, and His promises remain reliable for those who honor Him, even as time passes and generations change.

Where else these words appear

“fear” Hebrew H3373 · used in 63 verses

  • Genesis 22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.
  • Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
  • Psalms 128:1 A Song of degrees. Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.

“to” Hebrew H5704 · used in 97 verses

  • Genesis 3:19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
  • 1 Samuel 20:15 But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.
  • Job 18:2 How long will it be ere ye make an end of words? mark, and afterwards we will speak.

“righteousness” Hebrew H6666 · used in 150 verses

  • Genesis 15:6 And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
  • Psalms 103:6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.
  • Isaiah 56:1 Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed.