For the LORD will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants.

PSALMS 135:14KJV
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Psalms 135:14 (KJV)

What does Psalms 135:14 mean?

Psalms 135:14 says that the LORD will act as judge for his people and will show compassion or change his approach toward his servants. This verse highlights God’s ongoing care and willingness to respond to the needs or troubles of those who serve him.

In the context of Psalms 135, the psalmist is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and power. The verse reassures the listeners that God does not abandon his people but is attentive to their situation, ready to bring justice and mercy when needed.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 135:14

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing his covenant relationship with Israel.
  • judge (דִּין, din): This word means to act as a judge, to govern, or to bring justice. Here, it suggests God will actively intervene to set things right for his people.
  • repent (נָחַם, nacham): This word often means to be moved with pity or to relent. In this context, it points to God’s willingness to show compassion or change his approach toward his servants, not that God regrets, but that he is responsive and merciful.
  • people (עַם, am) and servants (עֶבֶד, eved): These words refer to the nation of Israel and those who serve God, highlighting the close relationship between God and his people.

Why Psalms 135:14 matters

  • This verse clarifies that God’s judgment is not only about punishment but also about defending and caring for his people when they are in need.
  • The use of the word "repent" (nacham) can be misunderstood; here, it emphasizes God’s compassion and readiness to show mercy, not that God makes mistakes.
  • Psalms 135:14 connects to the wider theme of the psalm, which celebrates God’s unique power and faithfulness to Israel, setting him apart from idols and other gods.

Where else these words appear

“judge” Hebrew H1777 · used in 24 verses

  • Genesis 6:3 And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
  • Job 36:31 For by them judgeth he the people; he giveth meat in abundance.
  • Proverbs 31:9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

“repent” Hebrew H5162 · used in 100 verses

  • Genesis 5:29 And he called his name Noah, saying, This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed.
  • Job 29:25 I chose out their way, and sat chief, and dwelt as a king in the army, as one that comforteth the mourners.
  • Jeremiah 18:10 If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.