Psalms 78:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 78:27
27 He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea:
Chapter Context
Psalms 78 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, redemption, holiness. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 78:27
27 He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea:
Analysis
He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea—the hyperbolic language ('dust,' 'sand of the sea') emphasizes overwhelming abundance. Hebrew še'ēr (flesh) and 'ôp kānāp (winged birds) satisfied their craving. Yet this 'answered prayer' became their nightmare—God gave them what they demanded to expose the poison in their desire.
Psalm 106:15 adds the tragic footnote: 'He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.' Romans 1:24-28 describes similar judgment: 'God gave them up' to their lusts. Sometimes divine wrath means granting sinful requests, letting rebels discover ruin in their demands. Christ warns: 'seek first the kingdom... and all these things will be added' (Matthew 6:33)—in that order.
Historical Context
Kibroth-hattaavah ('graves of craving') memorialized this judgment (Numbers 11:34). While they gorged on quail, a plague struck, killing thousands. Their graves testified that getting what you want can be the worst judgment.
Reflection
- What answered prayer might actually be divine judgment, giving you over to your destructive desire?
- How can you discern the difference between God's provision and God 'giving you up' to your craving?