Psalms 78:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 78:18
18 And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust.
Chapter Context
Psalms 78 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, faith, mercy. 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 21-72: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 78:18
18 And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust.
Analysis
And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust—the Hebrew nissâ (tempted) means to test or prove, putting God on trial to see if He'll comply with fleshly demands. Numbers 11:4-34 records this incident: the 'mixed multitude' craved Egyptian cuisine, spurning manna as inadequate. Their ta'ăwâ (lust, craving) represented not hunger but discontent with God's chosen provision.
James 1:14 explains: 'Each person is tempted when dragged away and enticed by his own lust.' Israel's sin was demanding God satisfy appetites rather than trusting His menu. Jesus refused to turn stones to bread (Matthew 4:3-4) because 'man shall not live by bread alone'—the very lesson Israel failed in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:3).
Historical Context
The quail incident (Numbers 11) occurred at Kibroth-hattaavah ('graves of craving') in the wilderness of Paran, approximately one year after leaving Egypt. God granted their demand but sent 'leanness into their soul' (Psalm 106:15).
Reflection
- What cravings are you demanding God satisfy instead of receiving His chosen provision?
- How does consumer culture's 'you deserve it' mentality mirror Israel's wilderness lust?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 6:16
- Parallel theme: Numbers 11:4, 1 Corinthians 10:9