For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse highlights that God's choice of Israel wasn't just a historical event; it was a deliberate act of claiming them as His own "peculiar treasure." This emphasizes that their identity was rooted in His exclusive ownership and affection, setting them apart for a unique purpose.
For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This psalm is a call to praise the Lord, and the verses immediately preceding and following this one lay out the reasons why. Before this, the psalmist urges servants of God to praise His name, and after it, he will highlight God's power over creation and His judgment against idols. This specific verse points to the unique covenant relationship God established with Israel, setting them apart from all other nations as His special possession, which is the foundational blessing for their praise.
Why does God choose certain people? This verse points to His initiative, not ours.
The verse states, 'For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession.' This isn't about Israel earning God's favor; it's about God's intentional, sovereign decision. He set His affection on Jacob (representing the nation of Israel) not because they were inherently better, but because of His own good pleasure and purpose. This choice wasn't based on their actions but on His plan to reveal Himself and His redemptive work through them. It’s a powerful reminder that our relationship with God begins with His deliberate act of choosing us.
What does it mean to be God's 'peculiar treasure'? It's more than just being special.
The phrase 'his own possession' or 'peculiar treasure' speaks to something deeply valued and set apart. It describes a unique relationship, like a king’s private jewels or an inheritance. For Israel, this meant being His special people, distinct from all other nations, entrusted with His covenant, His law, and His presence. It implied a responsibility to live in a way that reflected His character. This wasn't just about privilege; it was about purpose – to be a light and a witness to the world.
Understand the original words
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bachar · Hebrew Verb
Refers to the act of selecting someone for a specific purpose or relationship. God’s choice is based on His sovereign grace, not on the merit of the one chosen.
segullah · Hebrew Noun
Refers to something uniquely belonging to God, which He highly values and protects as His own treasure or special property.
This verse reminds us that God's choice of Israel wasn't random; it was the continuation of a long, unfolding plan rooted in His covenant with Abraham and enacted through pivotal moments like the Exodus. This historical context highlights the depth of God's commitment and the responsibility Israel bore as His 'peculiar treasure.'
~1800 BC
Abraham Called from Ur
God calls Abraham, the father of Isaac and grandfather of Jacob, initiating His covenant relationship with Abraham's lineage.
~1700 BC
Jacob and His Family Move to Egypt
Jacob and his descendants settle in Egypt, eventually becoming a large people but also slaves.
~1446 BC
Exodus from Egypt
God delivers Israel from slavery in Egypt, a foundational event demonstrating His power and faithfulness to His chosen people.
c. 1406 BC
Conquest and Division of Canaan
Under Joshua, Israel enters and divides the Promised Land, establishing their national identity as God's possession.
c. 1000 BC
United Monarchy Established
David establishes Jerusalem as the capital, solidifying Israel's identity as a nation under God's chosen king.
c. 931 BC
Divided Monarchy
Following Solomon's reign, the kingdom splits into Israel (North) and Judah (South), a period of spiritual decline for both.
c. 722 BC
Fall of Samaria and Assyrian Exile
The Northern Kingdom of Israel is conquered by Assyria, and its people are exiled, serving as a stark warning.
This passage directly echoes Psalm 135:4, stating Israel is a 'special people' set apart by God, reinforcing the idea of a unique, chosen identity.
Exodus 19:5Here, God declares Israel His 'treasured possession' above all others, highlighting the special relationship and divine ownership implied in Psalm 135:4.
1 Samuel 12:22This verse emphasizes God's faithfulness, assuring Israel that because the Lord has chosen them, He will not abandon them, underscoring the lasting nature of His election.
John 15:16Jesus tells His disciples that they did not choose Him, but He chose them, mirroring the divine initiative of election seen in Psalm 135:4 and showing this principle extends to the New Covenant community.
1 Peter 2:9This verse calls believers a 'chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession,' directly linking the Old Testament concept of Israel's election to the identity and purpose of all believers in Christ.
clarkePsalms 135:4: "For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure."
For the Lord hath chosen Jacob - This is a third reason. He has taken the Israelites for his peculiar people, סגלתו segullatho, his peculiar treasure; and now has brought them home to himself from their captivity and wanderings.
ellicottPsalms 135:4: "For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure."
(4) Peculiar treasure. —A special covenant-name for Israel ( Exodus 19:5 ; Deuteronomy 7:6 , &c.), and of private property ( 1Chronicles 29:3 ; Ecclesiastes 2:8 ).
This verse highlights that God's choice of Israel wasn't just a historical event; it was a deliberate act of claiming them as His own "peculiar treasure." This emphasizes that their identity was rooted in His exclusive ownership and affection, setting them apart for a unique purpose.
This psalm is a call to praise the Lord, and the verses immediately preceding and following this one lay out the reasons why. Before this, the psalmist urges servants of God to praise His name, and after it, he will highlight God's power over creation and His judgment against idols. This specific verse points to the unique covenant relationship God established with Israel, setting them apart from all other nations as His special possession, which is the foundational blessing for their praise.
This psalm is a call to praise the Lord, and the verses immediately preceding and following this one lay out the reasons why. Before this, the psalmist urges servants of God to praise His name, and after it, he will highlight God's power over creation and His judgment against idols. This specific verse points to the unique covenant relationship God established with Israel, setting them apart from all other nations as His special possession, which is the foundational blessing for their praise.
"For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession." — This verse highlights that God's choice of Israel wasn't just a historical event; it was a deliberate act of claiming them as His own "peculiar treasure." This emphasizes that their identity was root…
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Last reviewed October 2026