Psalms 78:55
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 78:55
55 He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents.
Chapter Context
Psalms 78 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, creation, 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 21-72: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 78:55
55 He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents.
Analysis
He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents. God actively cast out (garash, גָּרַשׁ)—a forceful expulsion—the Canaanite nations, demonstrating sovereign judgment on their wickedness (Leviticus 18:24-28). This wasn't ethnic cleansing but holy war against idolatry, prefiguring Christ's ultimate conquest of evil at His return.
The phrase divided them an inheritance by line (vaynachalem bechevel nachalah, וַיְנַחֲלֵם בְּחֶבֶל נַחֲלָה) describes the orderly land distribution by lot and measuring line (Joshua 13-21). God gave each tribe its nachalah (נַחֲלָה)—inheritance, permanent possession—fulfilling promises made centuries earlier. This inheritance anticipates believers' eternal inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:11).
Made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents emphasizes settlement and rest after wilderness wandering. The verb dwell (shakan, שָׁכַן) shares the root with mishkan (tabernacle)—Israel dwelt in the land while God dwelt among them. True rest comes when God's people inhabit God's place under God's rule.
Historical Context
The conquest and settlement (1406-1390 BC) transformed Israel from nomadic wanderers into a landed nation. Each tribe's inheritance became their identity marker. The 'tents' of conquered Canaanites became Israel's homes—a complete reversal showing God's faithfulness to His covenant promises despite Israel's earlier unbelief.
Reflection
- How should Christians understand Old Testament conquest narratives in light of Christ's command to love enemies?
- What 'inheritance' has God given you, and how are you stewarding it for His kingdom?
- In what ways does secure dwelling (rest) depend on God's presence rather than merely physical location?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 44:2, Joshua 13:7