Psalms 105:32

Authorized King James Version

He gave them hail for rain, and flaming fire in their land.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נָתַ֣ן
He gave
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
גִּשְׁמֵיהֶ֣ם
for rain
a shower
#3
בָּרָ֑ד
them hail
hail
#4
אֵ֖שׁ
fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#5
לֶהָב֣וֹת
and flaming
flame
#6
בְּאַרְצָֽם׃
in their land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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