Psalm 136:12
ESV
with a strong hand and an outstretched arm, for his steadfast love endures forever;
NIV
with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.
NASB
With a strong hand and an outstretched arm, For His faithfulness is everlasting.
CSB
with a strong hand and outstretched arm. His faithful love endures forever.
NLT
He acted with a strong hand and powerful arm. — His faithful love endures forever.
KJV
With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever.
NKJV
With a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm, For His mercy endures forever;
What does Psalm 136:12 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 136; verse-level content coming soon!Psalm 136:10–16 focuses on the exodus from Egypt. There, God used powerful miracles to prove Himself and break Egyptian power (Exodus 3:20; 12:41). The signature sign was the death of Egypt's firstborn (Exodus 12:29–30). The Lord protected the people from a vengeful Egyptian army at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:27–29). As Israel traveled in the wilderness, He provided them with food and water (Exodus 16:35; 17:6). Each feat is followed by a repeated reference to God's constant and eternal love.
Each verse in this psalm ends with a declaration that God's love is loyal and unending. The song praises God for His goodness, sovereignty, power, creation, rescue of Israel, empowerment of His people, mercy, sustaining power, and role as "the God of heaven." The song is often labeled "The Great Hallel" because of this enthusiastic worship.