Psalms 106:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 106:34
34 They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them:
Chapter Context
Psalms 106 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, faith, 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 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 106:34
34 They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them:
Analysis
This verse recounts Israel's failure to complete the conquest of Canaan. 'They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them' shows direct disobedience. God had commanded total destruction (herem) of Canaanite nations to prevent religious contamination (Deuteronomy 7:1-5; 20:16-18). Israel's failure to obey this difficult command stemmed from compassion, pragmatism, or incomplete trust in God's wisdom. This partial obedience was complete disobedience—it's not obedience if we only do what's comfortable or convenient. The failure to remove pagan nations became Israel's greatest ongoing temptation throughout the judges and monarchy periods.
Historical Context
Judges 1-2 records Israel's incomplete conquest. Tribe after tribe failed to drive out inhabitants, allowing Canaanites to dwell among them. Judges 2:1-3 records the Angel of the LORD rebuking them: 'I said, I will never break my covenant with you...but ye have not obeyed my voice...they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you.' This prophecy was fulfilled throughout Judges and Kings as Canaanite religions continually led Israel into idolatry.
Reflection
- How is partial obedience actually disobedience?
- What areas of 'incomplete conquest' in the Christian life lead to ongoing spiritual problems?
- How does failure to fully obey God's commands regarding sin create future snares?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 7:2, 7:16
- Parallel theme: Judges 1:21