What does Psalm 128:6 mean?
ESV: May you see your children 's children! Peace be upon Israel!
NIV: May you live to see your children’s children— peace be on Israel.
NASB: Indeed, may you see your children’s children. Peace be upon Israel!
CSB: and will see your children’s children! Peace be with Israel.
NLT: May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace!
KJV: Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, and peace upon Israel.
NKJV: Yes, may you see your children’s children. Peace be upon Israel!
Verse Commentary:
The theme of this entire psalm is how reverence for the Lord brings many benefits (Psalm 128:1). This echoes statements made in other books. Proverbs notes that following godly wisdom is much less likely to bring harm than does disobedience (Proverbs 9:10–11; 11:3–8; 14:27). Among these rewards is the opportunity for a longer life (Proverbs 3:5–8; 8:33–36). This verse continues a prayer of blessing (Psalm 128:5) along those same lines.
Scripture often ties obedience or disobedience to consequences that span generations. Children aren't given the excuse of following their parents' sins (Deuteronomy 5:9–10). This psalm referred to children as a divine blessing (Psalm 128:3). Children who honor their parents also put themselves in a good position (Exodus 20:12).
The nation of Israel, including the city of Jerusalem, have long been the target of hatred and attacks. Prayers for their peace are encouraged (Psalm 122:6).
Verse Context:
Psalm 128:5–6 proclaims a blessing over those who fear God (Psalm 128:1) and asks for peace over Jerusalem. Zion is the mountain which David captured (2 Samuel 5:7) and turned into the capital of Israel (1 Kings 8:1). The psalmist's hope is that those who love the Lord will be granted long, happy lives free from violence.
Chapter Summary:
Those who properly honor and follow the Lord are said to "fear" Him (Proverbs 9:10–11). This results in being blessed. The psalm does not guarantee prosperity, but Scripture indicates that the Lord's commands offer greater chance of success and less chance of negative consequences (Proverbs 8:33–36). Godly living benefits one's marriage, children, and life in general. The psalm ends with a prayer of blessing which refers to Zion, the location of Jerusalem (1 Kings 8:1).
Chapter Context:
This is one of fifteen songs labeled "of ascents" (Psalms 120—134). These were used when traveling "up" the hills to Jerusalem for various festivals (Deuteronomy 16:16). Themes in this psalm echo lessons from the book of Proverbs regarding the benefits of godly wisdom (Proverbs 9:10–11; 11:3–8; 14:27). Other psalms make similar remarks (Psalm 112:1; 119:1).
Book Summary:
The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.
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