Psalms 106:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 106:31
31 And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.
Chapter Context
Psalms 106 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, worship, judgment. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 106:31
31 And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.
Analysis
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.
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.
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)?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6666 - Righteous one