What does Psalms 105:20 mean?

The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free. Psalms 105:20

Explanation

Psalms 105:20 refers to a time when a king, usually understood to be the Pharaoh of Egypt, released a pivotal biblical character from his imprisonment. This character is traditionally interpreted to be Joseph, one of the patriarchs of Israel. The verse signifies a turning point in Joseph’s life; from being a prisoner, he is set free and, as the continuing verses suggest, raised to a position of power. The literal meaning is straightforward – a ruler has decided to release and empower an individual. The deeper significance points to the belief that God is at work in the events of history, orchestrating deliverance and elevation of those who are faithful.

Historical Context

Psalms 105 is a psalm of thanksgiving and remembrance. It recounts the wondrous works God has performed for the Israelites, starting with the patriarchs, through the Exodus and the conquest of the Promised Land. The historical context of verse 20 specifically harks back to the Genesis account (Genesis 39-41) where Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers and later unjustly imprisoned in Egypt, is released from prison by the Pharaoh after interpreting his dreams. This event precedes Joseph’s rise to power as the second-in-command in Egypt, which allows him to save many people, including his own family, from famine.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Psalms 105:20 is seen as an affirmation of divine providence. The verse indicates that God is involved in the lives of individuals and the actions of rulers are also under his control. It suggests that there is a divine plan at work, even in adverse situations. The rise of Joseph from a prisoner to a ruler can be viewed as a prefiguration of Christ, who was humiliated and crucified but then exalted by God. This verse aligns with the belief that God can use evil circumstances for good and can elevate those who are humble and faithful.

Practical Applications

A practical application of Psalms 105:20 could be the encouragement of faith and patience during difficult times. It suggests trusting in God’s timing and providence rather than in current circumstances. Another application is the insight that God can bring about redemption and restoration, making this verse a source of hope for those in unjust situations. It also calls for recognition of the unpredictable nature of life and the possibility that a negative experience today could lead to a positive outcome in the future.

Cross-References

• Genesis 41:14 – “Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh.”
• Genesis 45:5-8 – “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life… So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.”
• Esther 2:17 – “And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.”

Language Study

In the Hebrew text of Psalms 105:20, a few key words stand out:

• “King” (מלך; melek): generally means king or ruler.
• “Loosed” (פתח; patach): can mean to open, to free, or to release.
• “Ruler of the people” (משל; mashal): suggests someone with dominion or governance over people, often used for leaders or governors.
• “Let him go free” (שלח; shalach): to send away, to let go, or to dismiss. The word choice emphasizes the authority of the one releasing and the significance of Joseph’s transition from bondage to freedom.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be made with other ancient cultures where individuals rose from lowly positions to significant authority. For instance, in Ancient Egyptian mythology, the story of Sinuhe describes a courtier who flees Egypt and later returns to be honored by the Pharaoh. In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Enkidu transitions from living in the wild to becoming a close companion to Gilgamesh, king of Uruk. These stories show common literary themes of dramatic life changes and ascension to power that resonate with Joseph’s story.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the interpretation of dreams and the subsequent actions of rulers might be studied under the fields of psychology and sociology. Psychological analysis could explore the significance of dreams in decision-making and governance, while sociology might examine the effects of individual rises in social status on the wider community. While Psalms 105:20 itself doesn’t align directly with a scientific concept, the account of Joseph’s rise to power includes interpretations of dreams, which was regarded in ancient times as both a spiritual and intellectual pursuit.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered their interpretations of Psalms 105:20. Many agree that the verse highlights Joseph’s sudden change in fortune as being orchestrated by God. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes God’s sovereignty in placing Joseph where he was needed. The Pulpit Commentary notes the parallel between Joseph’s release and his immediate elevation as evidence of God’s plan. Some modern commentaries focus on the symbolic Christological aspects, seeing Joseph as a type of Christ, sovereignly moved from suffering to glory. Other commentaries might place more weight on the historical and cultural context, assessing the influence of Egyptian administrative practices on Joseph’s role in government.