Psalms 147:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 147:20 mean?

Psalms 147:20 says that God has not treated any other nation the same way He has treated Israel, especially in giving them His laws and judgments. The verse ends by calling the people to praise the LORD for this unique relationship and privilege.

The writer is speaking to the people of Israel, highlighting how God’s guidance and instructions—His "judgments"—were given specifically to them and not to other nations. This verse comes at the end of a psalm that celebrates God’s care for Israel, both in creation and in giving them His word, and it invites the people to respond with praise.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:20

• "Nation" (גּוֹי, goy): This word means a people or nation, often used in the Hebrew Bible to refer to non-Israelite groups. Here, it emphasizes that God’s special dealings were not with all nations, but with Israel in particular.
• "Judgments" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat): This word refers to God’s laws, decisions, or ordinances. The verse points out that these specific instructions and standards were not made known to other nations in the same way.
• "Known" (יָדַע, yada): This verb means to know or to make known. The verse stresses that other nations did not experience or understand God’s laws as Israel did.
• "Praise" (הַלְלוּ, hallelu): This is a call to praise, from which the word "Hallelujah" comes. It is an invitation for the people to respond with worship and gratitude.
• "LORD" (יָהּ, Yah): This is a shortened form of God’s name, used in expressions of praise.

Why Psalms 147:20 matters

• Psalms 147:20 clarifies that Israel’s knowledge of God’s laws was a unique privilege, not something shared with all nations at that time.
• The verse highlights the special relationship between God and Israel, which is a major theme throughout the Hebrew Bible.
• This verse helps explain why the psalm calls for praise: the people are reminded of the distinct honor and responsibility they have received by being entrusted with God’s word.