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    Redemption, Covenant, and a Holy Name

    Psalm 111:9 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name."
    — Psalm 111:9 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    One verse before naming wisdom (v. 10), the psalmist names three foundations: God's redeeming acts, His perpetual covenant, and His holy reputation. Wisdom begins where these three are taken seriously.

    Historical Context

    For Israel, 'redemption' first meant the Exodus; for the church, the cross fulfills the same pattern. The covenant is the formal commitment that holds the relationship in place.

    Original Language Insights

    'Reverend' (nora) — to be feared, awesome. The KJV uses 'reverend' only here of God's name — a reminder that the title belongs uniquely to Him.

    'Commanded' (tsivah) — ordained, decreed. The covenant is not a suggestion but a sworn order.

    Theological Significance

    Salvation, covenant, and holiness are inseparable. Strip away any one and the whole collapses. They stand together in the gospel and in the believer's life.

    Practical Application

    Use God's name with care. The only One properly called 'reverend' is the LORD Himself. Let your speech of Him be holy.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Psalm 111:10

    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom."

    The next verse — the holy, reverend name produces the fear that begins wisdom.

    Hebrews 9:12

    "Having obtained eternal redemption for us."

    The redemption sent in v. 9 finds its eternal form in Christ.

    Prayer Response

    Holy and reverend Lord, thank You for redemption sent and covenant kept. May Your name be hallowed on my lips. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Should pastors not be called 'reverend'?

    Many believers, citing this verse, reserve the title for God alone. At minimum, the verse reminds us that 'reverend' belongs first and supremely to the LORD.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Psalms 111 verse by verse:

    Before · Psalm 111:8Exact verse

    They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.

    Theme: Commandments That Never Expire

    After · Psalm 111:10Exact verse

    The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.

    Theme: Wisdom & Reverence

    Nearest commentary in Psalms

    Earlier · 4 ch back · Psalm 107:1Nearest chapter

    O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

    Theme: Thanksgiving

    Later · 1 ch forward · Psalm 112:1Nearest chapter

    Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.

    Theme: Blessedness & Obedience

    Later · 4 ch forward · Psalm 115:1Nearest chapter

    Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake.

    Theme: Glory Belongs to God Alone

    Later · 4 ch forward · Psalm 115:3Nearest chapter

    But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

    Theme: God's Sovereignty

    Read Psalms 110No commentary yet
    Read Psalms 111 (full)Nearest commentary: Psalm 111:8
    Read Psalms 112Commentary: Psalm 112:1
    Previous commentary: Psalm 111:8Next commentary: Psalm 111:10

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Is the Holy of Holies?

    The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and temple where God's presence dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant. Only the high priest could enter, once a year on the Day of Atonement.

    Read answer

    Why Is Israel Called the Holy Land?

    Israel is called holy because God chose it as the specific land for His covenant people, the stage for biblical history, and the setting for Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

    Read answer

    What Was the Holy of Holies?

    The Holy of Holies was the innermost room of the tabernacle and temple where God's presence dwelt above the ark of the covenant — accessible only to the high priest once a year.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About the Holy Land (Israel)?

    The Bible presents the land of Israel as central to God's covenant promises, the setting for salvation history, and a key element in end-times prophecy.

    Read answer

    What Does Jehovah-Rapha Mean?

    Jehovah-Rapha means 'The LORD Who Heals' — a covenant name God revealed to Israel after delivering them from Egypt.

    Read answer

    What Does Yahweh Mean?

    Yahweh is the closest modern pronunciation of God's personal covenant name (YHWH) — meaning 'I AM' or 'He Who Is.'

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Psalm 46:1 – Meaning & Devotional

    "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

    Psalm 27:1 – Meaning & Devotional

    "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

    Psalm 37:4 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

    Deliverance & Judgment
    Old Testament

    The Plague Stopped by Phinehas

    Phinehas' zealous act ends a plague that killed 24,000 Israelites at Peor.

    Read the miracle
    Power Over Nature
    Old Testament

    Parting of the Jordan

    The Jordan River stood up in a heap so Israel crossed into the promised land on dry ground.

    Read the miracle
    Signs & Wonders
    New Testament

    Pentecost — Tongues of Fire

    The Holy Spirit fell on the disciples with a rushing wind and cloven tongues of fire on the day of Pentecost.

    Read the miracle
    Deliverance & Judgment
    Old Testament

    Korah's Rebellion — The Earth Opens

    The ground splits open and swallows Korah and his followers for rebelling against Moses.

    Read the miracle

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    Q&A

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    Theology & Doctrine

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