TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Psalms 135:5–14. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The psalmist had suggested to us the goodness of God, as the proper matter of our cheerful praises; here he suggests to us the greatness of God as the proper matter of our awful praises; and on this he is most copious, because this we are less forward to consider.
I.He asserts the doctrine of God's greatness (Psa 135:5):
The Lord is great, great indeed, who knows no limits of time or place. He asserts it with assurance, "I know that he is so; know it not only by observation of the proofs of it, but by belief of the revelation of it. I know it; I am sure of it; I know it by my own experience of the divine greatness working on my soul." He asserts it with a holy defiance of all pretenders, though they should join in confederacy against him. He is not only above any god, but above all gods, infinitely above them, between him and them there is no comparison.
II.He proves him to be a great God by the greatness of his power, Psa 135:6.
1.He has an absolute power, and may do what he will: Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he, and none could control him, or say unto him, What doest thou? He does what he pleases, because he pleases, and gives not an account of any of his matters.
2.He has an almighty power and can do what he will; if he will work, none shall hinder.
3.This absolute almighty power is of universal extent; he does what he will in heaven, in earth, in the seas, and in all the deep places that are in the bottom of the sea or the bowels of the earth. The gods of the heathen can do nothing; but our God can do any thing and does do every thing.
III.He gives instances of his great power,
1.In the kingdom of nature, Psa 135:7. All the powers of nature prove the greatness of the God of nature, from whom they are derived and on whom they depend. The chain of natural causes was not only framed by him at first, but is still preserved by him.
(1.)It is by his power that exhalations are drawn up from the terraqueous globe. The heat of the sun raises them, but it has that power from God, and therefore it is given as an instance of the glory of God that nothing is hidden from the heat of the sun, Psa 19:6. He causes the vapours to ascend (not only unhelped, but unseen, by us) from the earth, from the ends of the earth, that is, from the seas, by which the earth is surrounded.
(2.)It is he who, out of those vapours so raised, forms the rain, so that the earth is no loser by the vapours it sends up, for they are returned with advantage in fruitful showers.
(3.)Out of the same vapours (such is his wonderful power) he makes lightnings or the rain; by them he opens the bottles of heaven, and shakes the clouds, that they may water the earth. Here are fire and water thoroughly reconciled by divine omnipotence. They come together, and yet the water does not quench the fire, nor the fire lick up the water, as fire from heaven did when God pleased, Kg1 18:38.
(4.)The same exhalations, to serve another purpose, are converted into winds, which blow where they list, from what point of the compass they will, and we are so far from directing them that we cannot tell whence they come nor whither they go, but God brings them out of his treasuries with as much exactness and design as a prudent prince orders money to issue out of his exchequer.
2.In the kingdoms of men; and here he mentions the great things God had formerly done for his people Israel, which were proofs of God's greatness as well as of his goodness, and confirmations of the truth of the scriptures of the Old Testament, which began to be written by Moses, the person employed in working those miracles. Observe God's sovereign dominion and irresistible power,
(1.)In bringing Israel out of Egypt, humbling Pharaoh by many plagues, and so forcing him to let them go. These plagues are called tokens and wonders, because they came not in the common course of providence, but there was something miraculous in each of them. They were sent upon Pharaoh and all his servants, his subjects; but the Israelites, whom God claimed for his servants, his son, his first-born, his free-born, were exempted from them, and no plague came nigh their dwelling. The death of the first-born both of men and cattle was the heaviest of all the plagues, and that which gained the point.
(2.)In destroying the kingdoms of Canaan before them, Psa 135:10. Those that were in possession of the land designed for Israel had all possible advantages for keeping possession. The people were numerous, and warlike, and confederate against Israel. They were great nations. Yet, if a great nation has a meek and mean-spirited prince, it lies exposed; but these great nations had mighty kings, and yet they were all smitten and slain - Sihon and Og, and all the kingdoms of Canaan, Psa 135:10, Psa 135:11. No power of hell or earth can prevent the accomplishment of the promise of God when the time, the set time, for it has come.
(3.)In settling them in the land of promise. He that gives kingdoms to whomsoever he pleases gave Canaan to be a heritage to Israel his people. It came to them by inheritance, for their ancestors had the promise of it, though not the possession; and it descended as an inheritance to their seed. This was done long before, yet God is now praised for it; and with good reason, for the children were now enjoying the benefit of it.
IV.He triumphs in the perpetuity of God's glory and grace.
1.Of his glory (Psa 135:13): Thy name, O God! endures for ever. God's manifestations of himself to his people have everlasting fruits and consequences. What God doeth it shall be for ever, Ecc 3:14. His name endures for ever in the constant and everlasting praises of his people; his memorial endures, has endured hitherto, and shall still endure throughout all generations of the church. This seems to refer to Exo 3:15, where, when God had called himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, he adds, This is my name for ever and this is my memorial unto all generations. God is, and will be, always the same to his church, a gracious, faithful, wonder-working God; and his church is, and will be, the same to him, a thankful praising people; and thus his name endures for ever.
2.Of his grace. He will be kind to his people.
(1.)He will plead their cause against others that contend with them. He will judge his people, that is, he will judge for them, and will not suffer them to be run down.
(2.)He will not himself contend for ever with them, but will repent himself concerning his servants, and not proceed in his controversy with them; he will be entreated for them, or he will be comforted concerning them; he will return in ways of mercy to them and will delight to do them good. This verse is taken from the song of Moses, Deu 32:36.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"Who smote many nations," who possessed that land, which God willed to give His people.
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Summary
Psalms 135:10 powerfully declares God's unparalleled sovereignty and active intervention in human history, recalling His decisive judgments against formidable earthly powers. It highlights the Lord's direct role in overcoming "great nations" and "mighty kings," thereby demonstrating His absolute supremacy over all creation and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people, in stark contrast to the impotence of idols.
Context
Literary Context
Psalms 135 is a vibrant hymn of praise, forming part of the Great Hallel tradition, often recited during significant Jewish festivals. The psalm commences with an earnest call to worship, inviting God's servants to praise the Lord for His inherent goodness and the pleasantness of His name (Psalms 135:1-3). It then transitions into a grand recitation of God's attributes and mighty deeds, first establishing His universal supremacy as the Creator and Controller of all natural phenomena (Psalms 135:5-7). Following this, the psalm shifts focus to God's specific historical interventions on behalf of Israel, particularly the pivotal events of the Exodus and the subsequent conquest of the Promised Land (Psalms 135:8-12). Our specific verse, Psalms 135:10, details God's judgment upon Israel's powerful adversaries during this formative period. The psalm culminates in a stark theological contrast between the living, active, and powerful God of Israel and the lifeless, impotent idols worshipped by surrounding nations (Psalms 135:15-18), reinforcing the exclusive call to praise the one true God. This carefully constructed narrative emphasizes that God's power is not merely theoretical but demonstrably active in history, providing a firm foundation for Israel's unwavering trust and worship.
Historical & Cultural Context
The "great nations" and "mighty kings" referenced in Psalms 135:10 are direct allusions to specific historical adversaries of ancient Israel during their foundational period as a nation. This primarily includes Pharaoh and the formidable nation of Egypt, whose defeat marked the pivotal event of the Exodus and God's powerful demonstration of His sovereignty over a global superpower. Following the Exodus, the Israelites encountered powerful Amorite kings such as Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, whose kingdoms were conquered by Israel under divine command as they approached the Promised Land. Subsequently, the broader category of "mighty kings" encompasses the numerous Canaanite kings and city-states that Israel subdued during the conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua, as extensively detailed in books like Joshua. In the ancient Near East, national deities were often perceived as limited to their specific territories or believed to reflect the power and success of their people. By recounting Yahweh's decisive victories over these formidable human powers, the psalmist asserts God's unique identity as the universal, sovereign God, whose power transcends all earthly boundaries and human might, actively intervening in history to fulfill His redemptive purposes for Israel.
Key Themes
Psalms 135:10 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores Divine Sovereignty and Power, asserting that no earthly ruler or empire, regardless of its might, can withstand the will of the Almighty God. This theme is foundational, demonstrating God's ultimate authority over all creation and human affairs, a stark contrast to the limited power of human rulers and false gods, which are unable to act or intervene (Psalms 135:15-18). Secondly, the verse highlights God's role as Deliverer and Protector of His people. The destruction of these nations and kings was not an end in itself, but a divinely orchestrated means to secure Israel's freedom, inheritance, and safety, fulfilling God's promise to bring them into the land flowing with milk and honey, as described in Deuteronomy 6:10-11). Finally, these historical acts serve as undeniable proof of God's Faithfulness to His Covenant. By actively intervening to defeat Israel's enemies, God demonstrated His unwavering commitment to the promises made to Abraham and his descendants, ensuring the continuity of His covenant relationship with them, echoing the enduring love proclaimed in Psalm 136:1.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)." In this context, it signifies God's direct, forceful, and decisive intervention, often with destructive or punitive intent. It conveys an impactful action that results in the defeat and overcoming of an adversary.
Referring to a "foreign nation" or "Gentile." The plural "nations" (Hebrew: goyim) emphasizes the multitude, diversity, and collective power of the non-Israelite peoples that God judged. This highlights the global scope of His authority and the comprehensive nature of His dominion over all human polities.
A primitive root meaning "to smite with deadly intent; destroy, kill, murder, slay." This verb is stronger and more definitive than "smote," indicating a complete and final destruction, often implying a fatal outcome. It underscores the absolute and irreversible nature of God's judgment upon these kings.
A passive participle meaning "powerful" or "numerous." This adjective intensifies the description of the kings, emphasizing that they were formidable, strong, and perhaps even vast in their armies or influence. The use of this term makes God's victory over them all the more impressive and highlights His superior power.
Verse Breakdown
"Who smote great nations"
This clause declares God's active, powerful, and comprehensive judgment against large, formidable foreign entities. The term "great nations" emphasizes their significant power, size, or influence in the ancient world, whether militarily, politically, or numerically. God's act of "smiting" them signifies a direct, forceful, and decisive intervention that resulted in their defeat, thereby demonstrating His superior strength and sovereignty over all earthly powers. This refers to the comprehensive overthrow of collective political and military forces that stood against His will and His people.
"and slew mighty kings"
This parallel clause reinforces and intensifies the previous statement, focusing specifically on the individual rulers and leaders of these powerful entities. The verb "slew" indicates a definitive and often fatal judgment, highlighting God's direct control over the lives and destinies of even the most powerful human leaders. The adjective "mighty" further underscores the immense power, authority, and perhaps military strength wielded by these kings, making God's act of slaying them a profound testament to His absolute authority and His ability to humble the proud and bring down the most formidable human opposition.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of God's supreme power. Parallelism is prominently featured through the repetition of similar ideas in successive clauses: "Who smote great nations" is clearly paralleled by "and slew mighty kings." This synonymous parallelism serves to emphasize and reinforce the singular idea of God's overwhelming power and judgment over all earthly authorities, providing a rhythmic and memorable declaration. The use of "great nations" and "mighty kings" also functions as a form of Hyperbole, not necessarily implying the literal destruction of every single nation and king, but rather conveying the idea of comprehensive and overwhelming power that God overcame. This illustrates that no earthly force, however formidable, can stand against Him. Furthermore, the actions of "smote" and "slew" are Anthropomorphisms, attributing human-like actions of warfare, judgment, and physical force to God. This makes His divine intervention tangible and comprehensible to the human audience, allowing them to grasp the reality and effectiveness of His sovereign acts in history. These devices collectively amplify the psalmist's declaration of God's unparalleled might and sovereignty.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Psalms 135:10 serves as a profound theological statement on God's active involvement in human history, demonstrating His ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers. It reinforces the biblical truth that the Lord is not a distant, passive deity, but an omnipotent ruler who intervenes decisively to accomplish His purposes and protect His covenant people. This verse, by recalling specific historical acts of judgment against nations and kings, establishes a pattern of divine intervention that assures believers of God's ongoing control amidst global turmoil. It contrasts sharply with the impotence of idols, which "have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not" (Psalms 135:16), thereby exalting the living God as the sole source of true power and deliverance. This historical precedent provides a foundational truth for faith, reminding us that the God who acted mightily in the past remains capable of acting in the present and future, always working for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Reflection and Application
Psalm 135:10 offers profound reassurance and a compelling call to worship for believers today. In a world often characterized by political instability, the rise and fall of empires, and the apparent dominance of powerful human institutions, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that there is a higher authority who ultimately orchestrates the course of history. God's past actions of "smiting great nations and slaying mighty kings" demonstrate that no earthly power, however formidable or threatening, can thwart His divine will or stand against His purposes for His people. This truth encourages us to place our ultimate trust not in human leaders, political systems, or military might, but in the unchanging, sovereign God. It inspires a deep sense of awe and gratitude, prompting us to boldly praise Him for His incomparable might and His unwavering faithfulness. Knowing that the same God who delivered Israel from overwhelming foes is our God today, we can find courage to face our own challenges, whether they be personal struggles, societal pressures, or global uncertainties, confident in His ability to deliver, sustain, and ultimately bring about His righteous will. This verse calls us to worship a God who is actively engaged in the world, powerful enough to overcome any obstacle, and faithful to His promises.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who are the "great nations" and "mighty kings" mentioned in Psalms 135:10?
The "great nations" and "mighty kings" primarily refer to the historical adversaries of ancient Israel during their deliverance from Egyptian bondage and their subsequent conquest of the Promised Land. This includes Pharaoh and the nation of Egypt, whose power was decisively broken during the Exodus through God's miraculous intervention. It also specifically refers to the Amorite kings Sihon and Og, whose powerful kingdoms were conquered by Israel before entering Canaan. More broadly, it encompasses the various Canaanite kings and city-states that were defeated under Joshua's leadership during the conquest, as extensively detailed in books like Joshua. The psalmist uses these historical examples to illustrate God's comprehensive and decisive power over all earthly rulers and empires, regardless of their perceived strength.
Why does the Psalm emphasize God's destructive power in "smiting" and "slaying"?
The emphasis on God's "smiting" and "slaying" in Psalms 135:10 is not to glorify violence, but to powerfully demonstrate His absolute sovereignty and unique ability to overcome any opposition. In the ancient world, the defeat of a nation or king was often seen as the defeat of their gods. By recounting these decisive victories, the psalmist highlights that the God of Israel is the one true God, superior to all false deities and human power structures. These acts of judgment were simultaneously acts of deliverance for Israel, securing their freedom, inheritance, and safety in the Promised Land. It underscores that God is an active, intervening God who fulfills His promises and protects His people, even through means that appear destructive to His enemies. This contrasts sharply with the impotence of idols, which are unable to act or intervene on behalf of their worshippers, as noted in Psalms 135:15-18.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Psalms 135:10, with its declaration of God's decisive victory over "great nations" and "mighty kings," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament acts prefigured God's sovereign power over earthly rulers and nations, Christ's victory extends far beyond physical kingdoms to encompass spiritual principalities and powers. The "smiting" and "slaying" of ancient kings foreshadow the definitive triumph of the Lamb of God over sin, death, and the spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). Through His crucifixion, Jesus disarmed and triumphed over these spiritual rulers, making a public spectacle of them (Colossians 2:15). His resurrection and ascension establish Him as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, to whom "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given" (Matthew 28:18). The historical acts in Psalms 135:10 demonstrate God's power to deliver His people from physical oppression, but Christ's work provides eternal deliverance from spiritual bondage and the ultimate enemy, death itself (1 Corinthians 15:26). He is the ultimate "mighty King" who has conquered all opposing powers, ensuring that one day "every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:10-11). Thus, the psalmist's praise for God's historical victories culminates in the worship of Christ, the victorious Messiah, whose kingdom will have no end (Revelation 11:15).