Psalms 136:6

To him that stretched out the earth aboue the waters: for his mercy endureth for euer. Psalms 136:6 (KJV)

Psalm 136 is a psalm of thanksgiving and praise to God for His enduring mercy and steadfast love. It is often referred to as the “Great Hallel” because of its recurring refrain, “for his mercy endureth for ever.” Though some mistakenly call it the “Hallelujah Chorus,” that title belongs to Handel’s Messiah and is not commonly applied to this psalm.

In verse 6 the psalmist praises God for His creative power and sovereignty over the earth. The wording “stretched out the earth above the waters” alludes directly to the creation account in Genesis 1:9‑10, where God separated the waters and established dry land. This image highlights God’s role as Creator and underscores His authority and dominion over both earth and waters.

The phrase also reminds believers of God’s power to bring order out of chaos and His ongoing sustenance of the created world. Throughout Psalm 136 the refrain “for his mercy endureth for ever” is repeated, emphasizing the central theme of God’s unfailing, everlasting mercy. This repeated declaration points to His faithfulness and steadfast love that extend through all generations.

By acknowledging God’s act of stretching out the earth and affirming His eternal mercy, the psalmist recognizes God’s greatness and expresses deep gratitude for His benevolence. The passage invites us to reflect on God’s creative power, His continual care for creation, and His unwavering love and faithfulness.

Overall, Psalm 136:6 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty as Creator and of His enduring mercy that reaches every aspect of His creation. It calls each generation to give thanks and praise to God for His immeasurable goodness, faithfulness, and the everlasting love that sustains the world.