Psalms 105:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 105:34
34 He spake, and the locusts came, and caterpillers, and that without number,
Chapter Context
Psalms 105 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, judgment. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 105:34
34 He spake, and the locusts came, and caterpillers, and that without number,
Analysis
The eighth plague (locusts, Exodus 10:1-20) is described. 'He spake' again emphasizes divine word-power. The locusts came in unprecedented numbers ('without number'), representing total devastation. 'Caterpillers' (yelek, יֶלֶק) refers to young locusts or grasshoppers, indicating multiple life stages attacking crops. This plague challenged Anubis (god of fields) and Osiris (god of crops). The phrase 'without number' parallels God's promises to Abraham about innumerable descendants (Genesis 15:5)—the same God who multiplies in blessing can multiply in judgment. This demonstrates the covenant principle: obedience brings multiplication of blessing; disobedience brings multiplication of curses.
Historical Context
Locust plagues were (and remain) devastating to agrarian societies. The Book of Joel uses locust imagery for divine judgment, showing this was a recognized form of God's discipline. For Israel singing this psalm, it reminded them that the God who controls natural forces for judgment also controls them for preservation—He could send or withhold locusts as covenant faithfulness required.
Reflection
- How does God use natural phenomena to accomplish His sovereign purposes?
- What does the 'without number' multiplication of judgment teach about God's thoroughness?
- How should creation's responsiveness to God's word affect our response to Scripture?