Psalms 105:20
The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free.
Original Language Analysis
שָׁ֣לַח
sent
H7971
שָׁ֣לַח
sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
1 of 6
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
וַיַתִּירֵ֑הוּ
and loosed
H5425
וַיַתִּירֵ֑הוּ
and loosed
Strong's:
H5425
Word #:
3 of 6
to jump, i.e., be violently agitated; causatively, to terrify, shake off, untie
Historical Context
Pharaoh released Joseph from prison and immediately elevated him to second-in-command over Egypt (Gen 41:14-45) when he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams. This dramatic reversal demonstrated God's sovereignty over pagan rulers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's control over earthly authorities provide comfort when ungodly leaders seem to have power?
- What does Joseph's sudden exaltation teach about trusting God despite long seasons of obscurity?
Analysis & Commentary
The king sent and loosed Joseph, the 'ruler of the people let him go.' Pharaoh's release of Joseph demonstrates how God controls even pagan monarchs to accomplish His purposes. Joseph went from prisoner to prime minister instantly when God's timing arrived. Human authorities unknowingly serve God's plans. This prefigures Christ's exaltation after suffering (Phil 2:9-11). The Reformed doctrine of God's sovereignty over all authorities (Rom 13:1) recognizes that even unbelieving rulers accomplish divine purposes.