Psalms 78:32
For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works.
Original Language Analysis
בְּכָל
H3605
בְּכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
חָֽטְאוּ
For all this they sinned
H2398
חָֽטְאוּ
For all this they sinned
Strong's:
H2398
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn
ע֑וֹד
H5750
ע֑וֹד
Strong's:
H5750
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
This verse summarizes the forty-year pattern: rebellion at Kadesh despite previous miracles, golden calf after Sinai, Korah's revolt after vindication, serpent plague after provision. Each generation repeated the cycle, proving hereditary transmission of religion doesn't equal heart-transformation.
Questions for Reflection
- What miracles or answers to prayer have you witnessed yet still struggle with unbelief in present trials?
- How does Israel's pattern expose the inadequacy of 'if I could just see a miracle' thinking?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works—the phrase bə-kol-zō't (for all this) indicts persistent unbelief despite escalating revelation. The niplā'ōt (wondrous works) piled up—sea-crossing, rock-water, manna, quail—yet produced no lasting faith. Miracles don't create belief; they confirm it in the willing and harden it in the rebellious.
Jesus acknowledged this principle: 'If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead' (Luke 16:31). After His resurrection, some worshiped while 'some doubted' (Matthew 28:17). Hebrews 3:12 warns: 'Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God.' Faith comes by hearing God's word (Romans 10:17), not merely witnessing His works.