Psalms 105:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 105:28
28 He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word.
Chapter Context
Psalms 105 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, judgment, discipleship. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-45: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 105:28
28 He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word.
Analysis
God 'sent darkness and made it dark' - the ninth plague. This reversed creation's first day when God said 'Let there be light.' Egypt experienced un-creation, demonstrating God's power to withdraw His common grace blessings. 'They rebelled not against his word' is difficult—most translations understand it as Moses and Aaron obeying, or possibly that even darkness obeyed God's command. Christ's crucifixion brought darkness over the land (Matt 27:45), symbolizing divine judgment. The Reformed understanding recognizes God's control over natural phenomena to accomplish His purposes.
Historical Context
The plague of darkness (Exod 10:21-29) was particularly significant as it struck at Ra, the Egyptian sun god. Three days of complete darkness demonstrated Yahweh's superiority over Egypt's chief deity.
Reflection
- How does God's ability to send and remove light serve as a metaphor for spiritual truth and blessing?
- What does the darkness at Christ's crucifixion reveal about the gravity of divine judgment on sin?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 99:7