Psalms 106:22

Authorized King James Version

Wondrous works in the land of Ham, and terrible things by the Red sea.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִ֭פְלָאוֹת
Wondrous works
properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful
#2
בְּאֶ֣רֶץ
in the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#3
חָ֑ם
of Ham
cham, a son of noah; also (as a patronymic) his descendants or their country
#4
נ֝וֹרָא֗וֹת
and terrible things
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#5
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
יַם
sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#7
סֽוּף׃
by the Red
a reed, especially the papyrus

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection