Psalms 105:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 105:5
5 Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
Chapter Context
Psalms 105 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, salvation, 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 105:5
5 Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
Analysis
Remembering (zakar) God's marvelous works, wonders, and judgments demonstrates covenant faithfulness. Memory is active in Hebrew thought—not mere recall but rehearsing and applying. The three terms (marvelous works, wonders, judgments) comprehensively describe God's redemptive acts. Remembering prevents forgetting, which leads to apostasy (Deut 8:11-14). Christ instituted the Lord's Supper as memorial (Luke 22:19), commanding believers to remember His work. The Reformed emphasis on Scripture reading and preaching serves this memorial function.
Historical Context
Israel's festivals, particularly Passover, functioned as formal remembrances of God's deliverance. This verse calls for personal, continual remembrance beyond annual celebrations.
Reflection
- What practices help you regularly remember God's works rather than forgetting His faithfulness?
- How does remembering God's past faithfulness strengthen your trust in present circumstances?
Word Studies
- Judgment: מִשְׁפָּט (Mishpat) H4941 - Judgment, justice
Cross-References
- Judgment: Psalms 119:13, Revelation 16:7
- Parallel theme: Psalms 40:5, 77:11, Deuteronomy 8:2, 32:7, Luke 22:19