Psalms 135:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 135:8
8 Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.
Chapter Context
Psalms 135 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, redemption, wisdom. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 135:8
8 Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.
Analysis
From creation the psalm pivots to redemptive history, beginning with the exodus: 'Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.' The Hebrew 'nakah' (smote, struck) conveys decisive, powerful action. The tenth plague represented Yahweh's final judgment against Pharaoh and Egypt's gods (Exodus 12:12). The inclusion of 'beast' alongside 'man' demonstrates comprehensive judgment - nothing in Egypt escaped divine power. This act definitively answered the question 'Who is the LORD?' that Pharaoh dismissively posed (Exodus 5:2). The death of firstborn struck at Egyptian succession, inheritance, and hope, while Israel's firstborn were protected by blood on their doorposts - a profound foreshadowing of Christ, our Passover lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7), whose blood shields believers from God's righteous judgment.
Historical Context
The death of Egypt's firstborn was the culminating plague that finally broke Pharaoh's resistance (Exodus 12:29-32). Egyptian religion placed enormous importance on proper burial and afterlife; this plague struck at the heart of their religious system. The judgment against beasts may particularly target Apis, the sacred bull-god worshiped in Egypt.
Reflection
- How should God's judgment on Egypt affect our view of His justice?
- What does the Exodus reveal about God's commitment to deliver His people?
Cross-References
- References Egypt: Psalms 78:51, Exodus 12:12
- Parallel theme: Psalms 105:36