Psalms 78:65

Analysis & Commentary

Then the Lord awaked as one out of sleep, and like a mighty man that shouteth by reason of wine. This startling anthropomorphism depicts God's sudden intervention after apparent inactivity. Then (az, אָז) marks the dramatic turn from judgment to deliverance. Awaked as one out of sleep (vayikatz kiyashen, וַיִּקַץ כְּיָשֵׁן) doesn't suggest God literally slept but uses human analogy—His seeming inaction suddenly erupts into vigorous activity.

The simile like a mighty man that shouteth by reason of wine (kegibbor mitronan miyyayin, כְּגִבּוֹר מִתְרוֹנֵן מִיָּיִן) is deliberately shocking. It doesn't depict drunkenness but the battle cry of a warrior roused to fierce action, perhaps with wine's courage-inducing effects. God arises with overwhelming force, shouting the war cry against Israel's enemies.

This verse anticipates Jesus' resurrection—death seemed victorious, but God 'awoke' with power, shouting triumph over the grave. When human hope dies, divine intervention becomes most dramatic. God's delays aren't defeats; His timing serves redemptive purposes beyond human understanding.

Historical Context

God's 'awakening' manifested in the ark's devastating effects on Philistia—plagues, tumors, Dagon's collapse (1 Samuel 5-6). The Philistines hastily returned the ark with guilt offerings. This divine intervention vindicated Yahweh's supremacy over pagan deities and began Israel's recovery under Samuel's leadership.

Questions for Reflection

• How should believers interpret seasons when God seems 'asleep' and prayer appears unanswered?
• What does this warrior imagery teach about God's fierce commitment to defending His people and name?
• In what ways did Jesus' resurrection function as God's ultimate 'awakening' to shout victory over sin and death?