“To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:”
The striking down of great kings refers to the conquest narratives wherein God defeated the rulers controlling Canaan. The term great suggests the military and political power of these opponents; their defeat demonstrates divine supremacy in international affairs. This verse connects God's governance to historical-political reality; God's covenant faithfulness includes protection of His people through conquest of their enemies. The narrative arc moves from liberation (Egypt) to land-taking (Canaan).
Church Fathers on Psalms 136:17
1. “Give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures for ever” Psalm 135:1. This Psalm contains the praise of God, and all its verses finish in the same way. Wherefore although many things are related here in praise of God, yet His mercy is most commended; for without this plain commendation, he, whom the Holy Spirit used to utter this Psalm, would have no verse be ended. Although after the judgment, by which at the end of the world the quick and the dead must…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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