Psalms 36:5

Authorized King James Version

Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

בְּהַשָּׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

is in the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ

H2617

Thy mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

אֱ֝מֽוּנָתְךָ֗

H530

and thy faithfulness

literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity

עַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

שְׁחָקִֽים׃

H7834

reacheth unto the clouds

a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the divine love theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding faith in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about divine love?
What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?