Psalms 135:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 135:11
11 Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan:
Chapter Context
Psalms 135 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, worship, grace. 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 21-21: 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 135:11
11 Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan:
Analysis
Specific enemies are named: 'Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan.' Sihon and Og become paradigmatic examples of defeated foes throughout Scripture (Numbers 21:21-35; Deuteronomy 2-3; Joshua 2:10; Nehemiah 9:22). Sihon ruled the territory between the Arnon and Jabbok rivers; Og controlled Bashan in the northern Transjordan, and was remembered as a giant whose iron bedstead measured nine by four cubits (Deuteronomy 3:11). Their defeat opened the way for Israel's entry into the promised land. The phrase 'all the kingdoms of Canaan' summarizes the subsequent conquest under Joshua. These victories were not Israel's achievement but God's gift. Each name recalled a specific story of divine deliverance, encouraging worshipers to trust the same God for present challenges.
Historical Context
Sihon and Og's defeats occurred during Moses' leadership, just before the Jordan crossing (Numbers 21). Their territories became the inheritance of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. Ancient Israel rehearsed these victories regularly in worship; they appear in Deuteronomy's review, Joshua's speeches, Nehemiah's prayer, and multiple psalms (136:19-20).
Reflection
- How does God's defeat of powerful kings demonstrate His sovereignty over human rulers?
- What does this verse teach about God's protection of His people?
Word Studies
- Kingdom: מַלְכוּת (Malkhut) H4467 - Kingdom, reign, royal power