Psalms 105:23
Israel also came into Egypt; and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham.
Original Language Analysis
יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל
Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל
Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
2 of 7
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
גָּ֣ר
sojourned
H1481
גָּ֣ר
sojourned
Strong's:
H1481
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to turn aside from the road (for a lodging or any other purpose), i.e., sojourn (as a guest); also to shrink, fear (as in a strange place);
Cross References
Psalms 78:51And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham:Psalms 106:22Wondrous works in the land of Ham, and terrible things by the Red sea.Acts 13:17The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.
Historical Context
Jacob's family of 70 people entered Egypt during the famine (Gen 46:27). They settled in Goshen (Gen 47:11) and multiplied greatly over approximately 400 years before the Exodus.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use unexpected relocations and transitions to accomplish His purposes in your life?
- What does Israel's preservation in Egypt teach about God's faithfulness even in foreign, difficult circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
Israel (Jacob) 'came into Egypt' and Jacob 'sojourned in the land of Ham.' This transition sets up the Exodus narrative. What began as temporary sojourn (ger) became prolonged settlement, eventually leading to slavery. 'Ham' refers to Egypt through Noah's son Ham, father of Mizraim (Egypt, Gen 10:6). God's providence brought Israel to Egypt for preservation, growth, and ultimately for demonstrating His power in the Exodus. Christ's family also fled to Egypt (Matt 2:13-15), fulfilling 'Out of Egypt I called my son' (Hos 11:1).