The psalmist praises Yahweh for his love and mercy. Verse 8 is almost identical in form with 103.8; the meaning is the same.

In verse 9b compassion translates a word which is from the same root as the word translated merciful in verse 8a. Yahweh’s goodness and compassion are directed to all his creatures, without any distinction or discrimination.

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .