Psalms 106:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 106:14
14 But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert.
Chapter Context
Psalms 106 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, judgment, salvation. 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 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 106:14
14 But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert.
Analysis
This verse describes Israel's lustful craving in the wilderness. 'Lusted exceedingly' translates the Hebrew construction avah taavah (אָוָה תַּאֲוָה), an intensive form meaning they lusted with strong lust—emphasizing the intensity and sinfulness of their desire. 'In the wilderness' notes the location of their rebellion, a place where they should have been especially dependent on God. 'Tempted God in the desert' (nasah, נָסָה) means they tested or tried God, demanding proof of His care and challenging His provision. This refers to demanding meat (Numbers 11:4-34), not being content with manna. Lust—inordinate desire that demands satisfaction—is identified as testing God, showing that discontentment with God's provision is actually rebellion against God Himself.
Historical Context
Numbers 11 records the 'mixed multitude' craving meat and fish from Egypt, despising the manna God provided. Their lust spread to Israelites who 'wept again' for meat. God gave them quail in abundance, but while the meat was still in their mouths, His anger fell and many died (Numbers 11:33-34). The place was named Kibroth-hattaavah ('graves of lust/craving'). This demonstrated that getting what we lust for can become judgment.
Reflection
- How does discontentment with God's provision constitute rebellion against Him?
- What is the difference between legitimate needs and sinful, inordinate cravings?
- In what ways do believers today 'test God' by demanding more than His provision?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 17:2, Numbers 11:4, 1 Corinthians 10:6, 10:9