King James Bible
"And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation."
Mary declares that God's covenant love (mercy) actively rests upon those who reverence Him. In the Magnificat's context, 'fear' means humble awe and obedience rather than terror, echoing Old Testament wisdom that reverent fear is the beginning of wisdom. God's mercy is not temporary but extends through all time, fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants. This phrase emphasizes the unchanging nature of God's character and His faithfulness to every successive generation that honors Him.