Psalms 105:25
He turned their heart to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants.
Original Language Analysis
הָפַ֣ךְ
He turned
H2015
הָפַ֣ךְ
He turned
Strong's:
H2015
Word #:
1 of 6
to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert
לִ֭בָּם
their heart
H3820
לִ֭בָּם
their heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
2 of 6
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
עַמּ֑וֹ
his people
H5971
עַמּ֑וֹ
his people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
4 of 6
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Historical Context
Egypt's oppression of Israel (Exod 1:8-22) included forced labor, infanticide, and brutal treatment. While Egypt remained morally culpable, this verse recognizes God's sovereign purpose in allowing and using their hostility.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you reconcile God's sovereignty over human decisions with human moral responsibility?
- What comfort comes from knowing God can use even opposition to accomplish His purposes for you?
Analysis & Commentary
God 'turned their heart to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants.' This startling verse attributes Egypt's hatred to God's sovereign action. He turned (haphak) their hearts, though they remained morally responsible. This demonstrates God's mysterious sovereignty over human hearts, using even human wickedness to accomplish His purposes. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart (Exod 9:12) fits this pattern. This doesn't make God the author of sin but shows His sovereignty extends to all events. The Reformed doctrine of divine sovereignty grapples with this mystery while maintaining God's holiness.