Psalms 136:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 136:20 mean?

Psalms 136:20 recalls how God dealt with Og, the king of Bashan, as a sign of His enduring mercy. The verse highlights a specific event from Israel’s history to show that God’s faithful love lasts forever.

In this psalm, a worship leader is speaking to the gathered people of Israel, listing moments when God acted powerfully on their behalf. Mentioning Og, king of Bashan, points to a time when Israel faced a formidable enemy and God gave them victory. The verse is part of a pattern, with each line ending in the refrain about God’s mercy, emphasizing that every act—even military victories—was an expression of God’s steadfast kindness.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 136:20

• בָּשָׁן (Bashan, transliterated "Bashan") refers to a fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its strong cities and mighty rulers. Mentioning Bashan reminds listeners of the strength of Israel’s opponents and the significance of God’s help.
• חֶסֶד (chesed, transliterated "chesed") is the word translated as "mercy" and often means steadfast love, loyalty, or lovingkindness. The use of חֶסֶד here stresses that God’s actions in history come from a deep, faithful commitment to His people.
• עוֹלָם (olam, transliterated "olam") is translated as "ever" and means something lasting or perpetual. The phrase underscores that God’s loyal love is not just for one moment but continues through all generations.

Why Psalms 136:20 matters

• This verse helps clarify that God’s mercy is not only shown in gentle or comforting ways but also in acts of deliverance and protection during conflict.
• By naming Og, king of Bashan, the verse connects the worshipper to a real historical event, making God’s mercy tangible and specific rather than abstract.
• The repeated refrain throughout the psalm, including here, ties each act of God—big or small—back to His enduring, faithful love, reinforcing the central theme of the whole chapter.