Psalms 105:29

Authorized King James Version

He turned their waters into blood, and slew their fish.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָפַ֣ךְ
He turned
to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
מֵימֵיהֶ֣ם
their waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#4
לְדָ֑ם
into blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#5
וַ֝יָּ֗מֶת
and slew
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
דְּגָתָֽם׃
their fish
fish

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection