Psalms 145:8
The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
This verse echoes Exodus 34:6-7, where God revealed His character to Moses after the golden calf incident. That foundational revelation established that despite Israel's rebellion, God's essential nature is compassionate. The description appears throughout the Psalter (Psalm 103:8) and across prophetic literature (Nahum 1:3, Joel 2:13). During Israel's exilic and post-exilic periods, when national suffering seemed to contradict God's merciful nature, this verse maintained theological affirmation. The repetition of these attributes in Jewish daily prayer (Kiddush Levana, the blessing over the new moon) indicates the liturgical and devotional significance of this characterization. In first-century Judaism, contemplating God's compassion provided comfort in the context of Roman occupation. Early Christians would have resonated with this portrait of God as gracious and merciful, which corresponds to New Testament revelation of God's character through Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean that God is 'slow to anger' in a world where injustice and evil often seem to go unchecked?
- How do God's compassion and patience relate to His justice and judgment?
- Why does the psalm emphasize God's merciful character rather than His power or majesty at this point?
- In what ways does recognizing God's graciousness change our approach to confession and repentance?
- How should the understanding that God is 'full of compassion' affect the way we treat others in His image?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse celebrates God's character through multiple attributes: 'The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.' The word 'gracious' (Hebrew 'chanun') signifies kindness, favor, and benevolence shown freely. 'Full of compassion' (rachamim, from rechem, womb) indicates the deep, tender mercy of a parent toward a child. 'Slow to anger' (erek appayim, literally 'long of nose') is a Hebrew idiom expressing patience and forbearance. 'Of great mercy' (rav chesed) emphasizes abundant, covenantal loyalty. This verse synthesizes multiple theological affirmations into one declaration. Rather than presenting God as a tyrant demanding submission, it reveals His nature as fundamentally kind and compassionate. The progression from grace to compassion to patience to mercy moves from general benevolence to specific expressions of relational care. This portrait of God's character provides the theological foundation for approaching Him in prayer and worship. God's slowness to anger means His judgment is measured and not reactive.