Psalms 106:31
And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.
Original Language Analysis
וַתֵּחָ֣שֶׁב
And that was counted
H2803
וַתֵּחָ֣שֶׁב
And that was counted
Strong's:
H2803
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
לִצְדָקָ֑ה
unto him for righteousness
H6666
לִצְדָקָ֑ה
unto him for righteousness
Strong's:
H6666
Word #:
3 of 7
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
וָ֝דֹ֗ר
generations
H1755
וָ֝דֹ֗ר
generations
Strong's:
H1755
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling
וָ֝דֹ֗ר
generations
H1755
וָ֝דֹ֗ר
generations
Strong's:
H1755
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling
Historical Context
Phinehas's line received perpetual priesthood, fulfilled through Zadok (1 Chronicles 6:3-15, 50-53; 1 Kings 2:27, 35). When Eli's corrupt sons profaned the priesthood, God promised to raise up a faithful priest (1 Samuel 2:35)—ultimately Zadok from Phinehas's line. During the exile, Ezekiel prophesied that only Zadokite priests could serve in the restored temple (Ezekiel 44:15-16). Thus Phinehas's righteousness brought blessing on his descendants for over 1,000 years.
Questions for Reflection
- What does 'counted for righteousness' teach about the relationship between faith and works?
- How do acts of covenant faithfulness bring generational blessing?
- In what ways does the Phinehas covenant prefigure Christ's eternal priesthood (Hebrews 7)?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse records the lasting significance of Phinehas's action. 'And that was counted unto him for righteousness' uses the same language applied to Abraham's faith (Genesis 15:6). Phinehas's zealous deed was reckoned as righteousness—not that the act earned salvation, but that it demonstrated covenant faithfulness that God accepted. 'Unto all generations for evermore' emphasizes the perpetual priesthood covenant God made with Phinehas (Numbers 25:13). His righteous act had generational consequences, just as the people's sins did. This teaches that covenant faithfulness or unfaithfulness extends beyond the individual, affecting descendants and the community across time.