God demonstrates His authority, delivering His people and offering hope for all who rely on Him.
In Psalm 135:8, the psalmist recalls the mighty works of the LORD during Israel’s deliverance from bondage, specifically recounting the dramatic event in Egypt’s history. The verse states: “He smote the firstborn of Egypt, Both of man and beast.” (Psalm 135:8). This description refers to the Tenth Plague (Exodus 12:29), which occurred in Egypt, a land located in the northeastern region of Africa known for the Nile River and ancient cities such as Memphis and Thebes. By striking the firstborn, God demonstrated His sovereignty over life itself, and at the same time He delivered the Israelites from oppressive captivity.
This act of judgment against Egypt unfolds during the time of Moses (circa 1526-1406 BC). Moses, chosen by God, confronted Pharaoh (the Egyptian ruler) with the command to release the Israelites from slavery. Pharaoh repeatedly refused, and each of the ten plagues evidenced God’s supreme power over Egyptian deities, nature, and the mighty empire. When Egypt’s firstborn were struck, it shattered Pharaoh’s resolve and led him to finally let the Israelites go. This liberating event forms the backdrop to the psalmist’s praise, celebrating a God who defends His people and enforces justice on their oppressors.
The verse also highlights the broader scriptural theme of redemption and salvation. The same God who smote the firstborn of Egypt would later send Jesus to save all who trust in Him (John 3:16). This link between the Old Testament and the New Testament emphasizes God’s consistent character: He is both a just judge and a merciful redeemer. While the exodus from Egypt freed Israel from physical bondage, Jesus offers spiritual liberation from sin. In this way, Psalm 135:8 invites believers to remember God’s decisive actions in history and to trust in His enduring power.
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Psalms 135:8 meaning
In Psalm 135:8, the psalmist recalls the mighty works of the LORD during Israel’s deliverance from bondage, specifically recounting the dramatic event in Egypt’s history. The verse states: “He smote the firstborn of Egypt, Both of man and beast.” (Psalm 135:8). This description refers to the Tenth Plague (Exodus 12:29), which occurred in Egypt, a land located in the northeastern region of Africa known for the Nile River and ancient cities such as Memphis and Thebes. By striking the firstborn, God demonstrated His sovereignty over life itself, and at the same time He delivered the Israelites from oppressive captivity.
This act of judgment against Egypt unfolds during the time of Moses (circa 1526-1406 BC). Moses, chosen by God, confronted Pharaoh (the Egyptian ruler) with the command to release the Israelites from slavery. Pharaoh repeatedly refused, and each of the ten plagues evidenced God’s supreme power over Egyptian deities, nature, and the mighty empire. When Egypt’s firstborn were struck, it shattered Pharaoh’s resolve and led him to finally let the Israelites go. This liberating event forms the backdrop to the psalmist’s praise, celebrating a God who defends His people and enforces justice on their oppressors.
The verse also highlights the broader scriptural theme of redemption and salvation. The same God who smote the firstborn of Egypt would later send Jesus to save all who trust in Him (John 3:16). This link between the Old Testament and the New Testament emphasizes God’s consistent character: He is both a just judge and a merciful redeemer. While the exodus from Egypt freed Israel from physical bondage, Jesus offers spiritual liberation from sin. In this way, Psalm 135:8 invites believers to remember God’s decisive actions in history and to trust in His enduring power.