O offspring of Abraham, his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones!
English Standard Version (ESV)
The verse highlights that Abraham is called God's "servant," but the plural "chosen ones" refers to all of Jacob's descendants. This subtle shift reminds us that God's covenantal relationship extends to the entire community, not just individuals, and underscores that their election is a gift to be embraced collectively.
O offspring of Abraham, his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones!
English Standard Version (ESV)
This psalm begins by calling God's people to remembrance and praise, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship established through Abraham and Jacob. Verse 6 directly addresses the descendants of these patriarchs, emphasizing their heritage as Abraham's servant and Jacob's chosen ones, setting the stage for a recounting of God's faithfulness to them. The verses that follow will elaborate on this covenant, detailing God's promises and actions throughout their history.
Ever feel like your past defines you? This verse calls out a specific group, reminding them of who they are through their lineage. But it's more than just bloodlines.
A Chosen People
The psalmist addresses the Israelites directly in Psalm 105:6, calling them the "seed of Abraham" and the "children of Jacob." This isn't just a historical nod; it's a declaration of their identity.
This dual identity – children of a faithful servant and chosen by God – is central to understanding Israel's unique relationship with God.
Being "chosen" sounds amazing, but what does it actually mean? This verse isn't just about a special club; it implies a purpose and a path.
More Than Just a Title
The designation of "seed of Abraham" and "children of Jacob" carries weight. It wasn't merely an honorific; it was a call to a specific way of life and a unique role in God's plan.
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Their chosen status wasn't a passive endowment but an active calling to live in relationship with the God who chose them.
Understand the original words
zeraʿ · Hebrew Noun
Refers to descendants or progeny. In a biblical context, it highlights the generational continuity and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs.
ʿebed · Hebrew Noun
A title of honor and status denoting one who is bound to perform the will of God, reflecting a relationship of loyalty, obedience, and belonging.
bachir · Hebrew Adjective
Referring to those specifically selected by God for a unique relationship, purpose, or calling. This choice is rooted in God's sovereign grace rather than the merit of the chosen.
This verse calls the Israelites to remember their special identity as descendants of Abraham and Jacob, a lineage chosen and blessed by God. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially in light of foundational events like the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan.
c. 1800 BC
God's Covenant with Abraham
God establishes a foundational covenant with Abraham, promising him descendants and a land. This marks Abraham as a key figure in God's plan.
c. 1750 BC
Covenant Renewed with Isaac and Jacob
God reiterates His promises to Abraham's son Isaac and grandson Jacob, solidifying the lineage through which His covenant people will come.
c. 1650 BC
Jacob's Descendants in Egypt
The family of Jacob, now known as the Israelites, settles in Egypt. They grow into a large nation over several centuries.
c. 1446 BC— this verse
The Exodus from Egypt
Under Moses, God delivers the Israelites from slavery in Egypt through mighty acts. This event is central to their identity and God's covenant faithfulness.
c. 1406 BC
Entry into the Land of Canaan
After 40 years of wandering, the Israelites, led by Joshua, conquer and settle in the promised land of Canaan, fulfilling God's ancient promise.
This passage describes God's initial call to Abraham, establishing the covenant and the promise of descendants that is being recalled in Psalms 105.
Deuteronomy 7:6-8This passage echoes the theme of God's election of Israel from all nations, emphasizing His love and faithfulness to the descendants of Abraham and Jacob.
Isaiah 41:8-9This verse directly refers to Abraham as God's servant and Jacob as His chosen one, mirroring the language and sentiment of Psalms 105:6.
1 Chronicles 16:13This verse from a parallel passage in Chronicles uses almost identical wording, highlighting the importance of remembering Abraham and Jacob as foundational figures for God's chosen people.
Galatians 3:29This New Testament passage connects spiritual lineage to Abraham, showing how the concept of 'seed of Abraham' extends beyond physical descent to those who are in Christ.
pulpitPsalms 105:6: "O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen."
Verse 6. - O ye seed of Abraham his servant; i.e. "his faithful and obedient follower" (see below, ver. 42; and comp. Genesis 26:24; Galatians 3:9). Ye children of Jacob his chosen; rather, his chosen ones. The word is in the plural, and must be referred, not to "Jacob," but to "children."
clarkePsalms 105:6: "O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen."
O ye seed of Abraham - Ye Jews especially, who have been the peculiar objects of the Divine favor.
The verse highlights that Abraham is called God's "servant," but the plural "chosen ones" refers to all of Jacob's descendants. This subtle shift reminds us that God's covenantal relationship extends to the entire community, not just individuals, and underscores that their election is a gift to be embraced collectively.
This psalm begins by calling God's people to remembrance and praise, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship established through Abraham and Jacob. Verse 6 directly addresses the descendants of these patriarchs, emphasizing their heritage as Abraham's servant and Jacob's chosen ones, setting the stage for a recounting of God's faithfulness to them. The verses that follow will elaborate on this covenant, detailing God's promises and actions throughout their history.
This psalm begins by calling God's people to remembrance and praise, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship established through Abraham and Jacob. Verse 6 directly addresses the descendants of these patriarchs, emphasizing their heritage as Abraham's servant and Jacob's chosen ones, setting the stage for a recounting of God's faithfulness to them. The verses that follow will elaborate on this covenant, detailing God's promises and actions throughout their history.
"O offspring of Abraham, his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones!" — The verse highlights that Abraham is called God's "servant," but the plural "chosen ones" refers to all of Jacob's descendants. This subtle shift reminds us that God's covenantal relationship exten…
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Last reviewed October 2026