Psalms 136:3
O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings claimed divine status or divine appointment, demanding absolute loyalty. Egyptian Pharaohs, Assyrian emperors, Babylonian rulers, Persian kings all asserted supremacy. Israel confessed YHWH as ultimate sovereign, relativizing all human authority. When earthly lords oppressed Israel (Egyptian slavery, Assyrian invasion, Babylonian exile, Persian subjugation), this confession provided hope—the Lord of lords would vindicate His people. Daniel demonstrated this: refusing to worship Nebuchadnezzar's image or cease praying to YHWH despite royal decrees (Daniel 3, 6). The New Testament church similarly confessed "Jesus is Lord," relativizing Caesar's authority (Acts 17:7, Philippians 2:11).
Questions for Reflection
- How does confessing God as "Lord of lords" affect your response to human authorities (governmental, workplace, church)?
- In what ways are you tempted to grant ultimate lordship to human powers or institutions?
- How does the combination of absolute sovereignty ("Lord of lords") with steadfast mercy change your view of divine power?
Analysis & Commentary
"O give thanks unto the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever." The title Adonei ha'adonim (Lord of lords) parallels verse 2's "God of gods," asserting YHWH's sovereignty over all earthly rulers. Adon means master, lord, sovereign—referring to human rulers or divine beings. Adonei ha'adonim declares Him supreme sovereign over all authorities. This connects to Deuteronomy 10:17 ("the great God, the mighty, and the terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward") and anticipates Revelation 17:14 and 19:16 (Christ as "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS"). The repeated refrain ki le'olam chasdo grounds sovereignty in mercy—God's absolute power serves His steadfast lovingkindness toward His people. This corrects false notions of divine tyranny; the all-powerful Lord is merciful.