Psalms 106:26

Therefore he lifted up his hand against them, to overthrow them in the wilderness:

Therefore he lifted up {H5375} his hand {H3027} against them, to overthrow {H5307} them in the wilderness {H4057}:

Therefore, raising his hand, he swore to them that he would strike them down in the desert

So He raised His hand and swore to cast them down in the wilderness,

Therefore he sware unto them, That he would overthrow them in the wilderness,

Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 106:26 (KJV)

Psalms 106:26 reads, "Therefore he lifted up his hand against them, to overthrow them in the wilderness:" This verse serves as a solemn declaration of God's judgment upon the rebellious generation of Israelites during their wilderness wanderings.

Context

Psalms 106 is a historical psalm, recounting the long and cyclical history of Israel's rebellion and God's enduring patience, interspersed with His righteous judgments. The psalm details various instances of Israel's unfaithfulness, from their murmuring after the Exodus to their idolatry and lack of trust. Verse 26 specifically refers to the consequence of the Israelites' refusal to enter the Promised Land after the spies brought back a fearful report from Canaan. Despite God's promises and miraculous deliverance, the people chose to disbelieve and rebel, leading to God's decree that the entire adult generation (save Joshua and Caleb) would perish in the wilderness. This pivotal event is extensively documented in Numbers chapter 14 and reiterated in Deuteronomy 1:34-35.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment and Consequences: The verse powerfully illustrates that God's holiness and justice demand a response to persistent sin and rebellion. The "overthrow" in the wilderness was not arbitrary but a direct consequence of their actions and unbelief.
  • The Gravity of Unbelief: At the heart of Israel's downfall was a profound lack of faith in God's power and promises. Despite witnessing incredible miracles, they doubted His ability to lead them into the land. This highlights that without faith it is impossible to please God.
  • God's Sovereignty and Oath: Even in judgment, God remains sovereign. His "lifting up His hand" signifies a solemn, irreversible oath or decree, demonstrating His unwavering resolve to uphold His word, whether in blessing or in judgment.
  • Covenant Fidelity (from God's side): While the Israelites broke their side of the covenant through disobedience, God remained faithful to His ultimate promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Though a generation perished, His plan to bring His people into the land was fulfilled through the next generation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "lifted up his hand" translates the Hebrew *nasa' yad* (נָשָׂא Χ™ΦΈΧ“). This is a powerful anthropomorphism that signifies a solemn oath or a decisive, binding decree from God. It implies a sworn commitment to a course of action, often with severe implications. It is not merely a threat but a declaration of a divinely ordained consequence, emphasizing the certainty and gravity of the judgment.

Practical Application

Psalms 106:26 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Learn from History: The psalm serves as a stark warning. We are called to learn from the mistakes of past generations, understanding that God's character of justice and holiness remains constant.
  • Embrace Faith and Obedience: The primary lesson is the critical importance of trust in God's promises and obedience to His commands. Persistent disbelief and rebellion have serious consequences, both in this life and eternally.
  • Understand God's Character: This verse reveals a God who is both loving and just. While He is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger" (Psalm 103:8), He will not condone sin indefinitely. His judgments are righteous and serve to uphold His holy character.
  • Persevere in the Journey: Just as the next generation of Israelites eventually entered the Promised Land, believers are called to persevere in their faith, trusting God to lead them to their ultimate spiritual inheritance in Christ.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 20:15

    Yet also I lifted up my hand unto them in the wilderness, that I would not bring them into the land which I had given [them], flowing with milk and honey, which [is] the glory of all lands;

  • Numbers 14:28

    Say unto them, [As truly as] I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you:

  • Numbers 14:35

    I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.

  • Psalms 95:11

    Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

  • Hebrews 3:11

    So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)

  • Deuteronomy 1:34

    And the LORD heard the voice of your words, and was wroth, and sware, saying,

  • Deuteronomy 1:35

    Surely there shall not one of these men of this evil generation see that good land, which I sware to give unto your fathers,