Psalms 116:12

Old Testament Poetry/Hymns ASV (1901)

What does Psalms 116:12 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me?” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me?
Psalms 116:12 — American Standard Version

Context — Psalms 116

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
12What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me?

What do historical commentaries say?

Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me? - All his “recompences,” - the same word which in Psalms 116:7 is rendered “hath dealt bountifully.” The question here has reference to that. What return can be equal to his bounties; what will be a proper acknowledgment of them; with what can I repay him for them all? The question is a natural and a proper question. It is one which we naturally ask when we have received a favor from our fellowmortals; how much more proper is it in view of the favors which we receive from God - especially in view of the mercy of God in the gift of a Saviour; the love manifested in the redemption of the soul! What can be an adequate return for…”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“116:12-14 The Lord’s gracious gifts are so great that the psalmist can do nothing to repay his debt. Keeping his promises publicly demonstrates his gratitude. • All he has done for the psalmist includes answers to prayer, rescue, and life. • The cup of salvation overflows with God’s blessings (23:5), unlike the cup of judgment (75:8). • The psalmist makes promises (“vows,” 116:18) to praise the Lord publicly (116:17-18).”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Psa 51:12-14, Psa 103:2; Isa 6:5-8; Rom 12:1; Co1 6:20; Co2 5:14, Co2 5:15 Psalms 116:13”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification