Psalms 107:14

KJV

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.

KJV (with Strong's)

He brought them out {H3318} of darkness {H2822} and the shadow of death {H6757}, and brake {H5423} their bands {H4147} in sunder {H5423}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He led them from darkness, from death-dark gloom, shattering their chains.

Berean Standard Bible

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains.

American Standard Version

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, And brake their bonds in sunder.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 107:14 stands as a powerful declaration of God's sovereign power to rescue and liberate those who are in the direst forms of captivity and despair. Situated within a psalm of thanksgiving that recounts various scenarios of human distress and divine deliverance, this verse specifically highlights God's active intervention to bring individuals out of profound darkness and the very brink of death, decisively breaking the bonds that held them captive. It encapsulates a core message of hope: no matter how desperate the situation, God hears the cry of the afflicted and acts with overwhelming might to set them free.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 107 is a magnificent psalm of praise and thanksgiving, structured around a recurring four-fold pattern: people in distress, their cry to the Lord, His deliverance, and a call to give thanks. Our verse, Psalms 107:14, falls within the second of these four scenarios (verses 10-16), which describes those "sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death, bound in affliction and iron" because "they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High." This section vividly portrays the consequences of disobedience, leading to imprisonment and utter despair. Following their desperate cry, "Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses" ([Psalms 107:13](/psalms/107-13 "Psalm 107:13 - The Cry for Deliverance")), verse 14 provides the specific, powerful action of God's rescue, bringing them into freedom and light. The subsequent verses continue to call for thanksgiving, emphasizing God's goodness and His wonderful works.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of "darkness and the shadow of death" and "bands" or "iron" would have resonated deeply with an ancient Israelite audience familiar with various forms of captivity. This could refer to literal imprisonment, as in dungeons or mines (common forms of ancient punishment or forced labor), or the experience of exile, such as the Babylonian captivity, where people were held in foreign lands, longing for liberation. The "shadow of death" (Hebrew: _tsalmavet_) evokes not just physical peril but also the spiritual and existential dread associated with being cut off from life, hope, and God's presence. Culturally, liberation from bondage was a foundational theme, rooted in the Exodus narrative where God delivered Israel from Egyptian slavery, establishing Him as the ultimate Redeemer and Liberator.

* **Key Themes:** Psalms 107:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the psalm and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Deliverance**, portraying God as the active, compassionate, and omnipotent agent who intervenes directly in human suffering. This deliverance is not passive but involves a decisive, forceful act to "bring out" and "break." Secondly, the verse highlights **Freedom from Bondage**, whether the chains are literal imprisonment, the spiritual shackles of sin, or the overwhelming weight of despair and oppression. The breaking of "bands in sunder" signifies a complete and irreversible liberation, echoing the broader biblical narrative of God setting His people free from various forms of slavery, as seen in the foundational account of [the Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Exodus"). Thirdly, the contrast between "darkness and the shadow of death" and being "brought out" emphasizes the theme of **Light Over Darkness**. This motif is pervasive in Scripture, illustrating God's power to transform the most hopeless situations into ones filled with light, life, and hope, foreshadowing the prophetic promise of a great light for those who walked in darkness in [Isaiah 9:2](/isaiah/9-2 "Isaiah 9:2 - The People Who Walked in Darkness Have Seen a Great Light").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **darkness (Hebrew, _choshek'_):** This term (חֹשֶׁךְ) signifies more than just the absence of light. In biblical usage, it frequently represents a state of distress, misery, sorrow, spiritual ignorance, or moral depravity. Here, it denotes the oppressive and hopeless condition of those held captive, both physically and existentially. It is a realm devoid of life, joy, or divine presence.
* **shadow of death (Hebrew, _tsalmavet'_):** This compound word (צַלְמָוֶת) is highly evocative. It literally means "shadow of death" or "deep darkness." It intensifies _choshek_, describing a place or state of extreme peril, desolation, and imminent danger, where death's presence is palpable. It conveys the utter hopelessness and the near-fatal nature of their predicament, suggesting they were on the very brink of annihilation.
* **brake...in sunder (Hebrew, _nittak_'):** The verb (נִתַּק) means "to tear away," "to pull apart," or "to break off." When combined with "bands" (מוֹסְרוֹת, _moserot'_), which refers to fetters, ropes, or chains, it signifies a violent, decisive, and complete severing of the bonds. This is not a gentle untying but a forceful, irreversible shattering, emphasizing the totality and power of God's liberation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death":** This clause immediately establishes God ("He") as the sole and active agent of deliverance. The movement is from a state of profound oppression and near-death ("darkness and the shadow of death") to freedom and life. It highlights God's initiative and power to intervene in the most desperate human circumstances, pulling individuals from the very abyss of despair and danger. This is a divine rescue operation, transforming their environment and destiny.
* **"and brake their bands in sunder":** This second clause specifies the decisive nature of God's liberation. The "bands" represent whatever held them captive—literal chains, spiritual bondage, or the crushing weight of their circumstances. The verb "brake...in sunder" (a strong, active breaking) emphasizes the completeness and finality of their release. God does not merely loosen their chains; He shatters them entirely, ensuring a total and irreversible freedom from their former captivity.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 107:14 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message of divine power and liberation. **Metaphor** is central, as "darkness and the shadow of death" are not merely literal absence of light but powerful representations of despair, oppression, and mortal peril. Similarly, "bands" serve as a **metaphor** for any form of captivity, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. The phrase "shadow of death" itself is a form of **hyperbole**, intensifying the sense of danger and hopelessness to an extreme degree, emphasizing the dire straits from which God delivers. The verse also employs a form of **parallelism** by presenting two distinct but complementary actions of God's deliverance: bringing them out of a state of darkness and breaking their bonds. This reinforces the comprehensive nature of His rescue. Finally, the vivid **imagery** of being pulled from the "shadow of death" and having "bands...broken in sunder" creates a powerful mental picture of dramatic and decisive liberation, underscoring God's overwhelming might.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly speaks to the character of God as the ultimate Deliverer and Redeemer. It reveals His compassionate nature to hear the cries of the afflicted and His omnipotent power to intervene in the most dire human circumstances. Theologically, it underscores humanity's inherent need for divine rescue from the various forms of bondage—whether physical imprisonment, the consequences of sin, or the existential darkness of despair. It affirms that true liberation comes not from human effort but from God's decisive action, bringing light where there is darkness and freedom where there is captivity. This theme resonates throughout the biblical narrative, from Israel's liberation from Egypt to the ultimate spiritual freedom offered through Christ.

* [Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus' Mission to Proclaim Liberty to the Captives")
* [Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Stand Firm in the Freedom Christ Has Given")
* [Isaiah 42:7](/isaiah/42-7 "Isaiah 42:7 - Opening Blind Eyes and Bringing Prisoners Out of the Dungeon")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 107:14 offers profound hope and encouragement for believers navigating the complexities of modern life. In a world often marked by literal and metaphorical prisons—addiction, mental health struggles, oppressive systems, spiritual bondage, or the crushing weight of past failures—this verse serves as a powerful reminder that no situation is too dark or too entrenched for God's intervention. It calls us to recognize that our deepest needs for liberation can only be met by His divine power. When we find ourselves in "darkness and the shadow of death," whether due to our own rebellion or circumstances beyond our control, the psalmist's message is clear: cry out to the Lord. He is able and willing to "break our bands in sunder" and lead us into glorious freedom. This verse cultivates a spirit of trust in God's omnipotence and a profound gratitude for His steadfast love and miraculous works in our lives, urging us to acknowledge His active role in every deliverance we experience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "darkness" or "bands" in your life currently feel overwhelming or inescapable?**
* **In what ways have you experienced God's deliverance, either physically, emotionally, or spiritually?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to trust God more deeply with seemingly impossible situations?**
* **What does "crying out to the Lord in trouble" practically look like for you today?**

### FAQ
**What kind of "darkness" is referred to here?**

Answer: The "darkness" in Psalms 107:14 refers to a multifaceted state of extreme distress and peril. While it can certainly encompass literal imprisonment or physical confinement in dark places like dungeons or mines, its primary biblical meaning extends to metaphorical and spiritual realms. It signifies a state of profound despair, misery, spiritual ignorance, moral corruption, or the overwhelming consequences of sin. The accompanying phrase "shadow of death" further intensifies this, denoting a condition so dire that one feels on the very brink of annihilation, devoid of hope or life. It is the antithesis of God's light and presence, representing alienation and suffering.

**Does this verse promise deliverance from all suffering?**

Answer: While Psalms 107:14 powerfully declares God's ability to deliver, it does not promise the immediate removal of all suffering or trials in a believer's life. Rather, it highlights God's power and willingness to intervene in response to a cry for help, particularly when suffering is a consequence of rebellion (as indicated in the preceding verses, [Psalms 107:10-12](/psalms/107-10-12 "Psalm 107:10-12 - Rebellion Leading to Affliction")). The deliverance described is often comprehensive, encompassing spiritual, emotional, and sometimes physical liberation. It's a testament to God's character as a rescuer, reminding us that even in the deepest valleys, He can bring light and freedom. However, the Christian life often involves enduring trials with God's strength, not always immediate escape from them, as [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - Rejoicing in Suffering") reminds us.

**How does this verse relate to personal sin?**

Answer: The immediate literary context of Psalms 107:14 explicitly links the "darkness," "shadow of death," and "bands" to personal sin and rebellion. [Psalms 107:11-12](/psalms/107-11-12 "Psalm 107:11-12 - Rebellious Hearts Brought Low") states, "Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High: Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help." This indicates that the captivity and suffering described are often the direct consequences of turning away from God's commands and wisdom. Thus, the "bands" can represent the self-imposed chains of sinful habits, the guilt and shame that accompany wrongdoing, or the natural consequences that result from choosing a path contrary to God's will. God's deliverance, in this context, is an act of grace that breaks the power of sin and its effects, offering forgiveness and restoration to those who repent and cry out to Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 107:14 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "He" who delivers humanity from the deepest "darkness and the shadow of death." As the [Light of the World](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"), Jesus came to dispel the spiritual darkness that enveloped humanity, a darkness caused by sin and separation from God. [John 1:4-5](/john/1-4-5 "John 1:4-5 - In Him Was Life, and the Life Was the Light of Men") declares that "in him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." Through His death and resurrection, Christ confronted and conquered the very power of death, delivering those who were held in its "shadow." [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Jesus Frees from the Fear of Death") explains that He "partook of the same, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." Furthermore, Jesus is the one who "brake their bands in sunder." The "bands" that truly enslave humanity are not merely physical chains but the spiritual bondage of sin, guilt, and the law. [Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Stand Fast in the Liberty Wherewith Christ Has Made Us Free") proclaims, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ paid the price for our sins, freeing us from the condemnation and power of sin, and transferring us from the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of His beloved Son ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from the Dominion of Darkness")). Thus, Psalms 107:14 is a prophetic echo of the ultimate liberation accomplished by our Savior, Jesus Christ, who holds the keys of death and hell ([Revelation 1:18](/revelation/1-18 "Revelation 1:18 - Jesus Holds the Keys of Death and Hades")), forever breaking the bonds that once held us captive.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 42:16

And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

Psalms 116:16

O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant; I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.

Ephesians 5:8

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Zechariah 9:11

As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein [is] no water.

Zechariah 9:12

¶ Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare [that] I will render double unto thee;

1 Peter 2:9

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Psalms 107:10

¶ Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, [being] bound in affliction and iron;