What does Psalms 105:21 mean?

He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance: Psalms 105:21

Explanation

Psalm 105:21, “He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance,” is a phrase that relays the ascension of an individual to a position of great authority and responsibility. In the most direct sense, this refers to the elevation of a person within a household or domain to oversee all affairs and possessions. The verse could be interpreted as a divine appointment, where God is the one who has granted this authority. It often points towards the theme of divine providence and human promotion through divine grace.

Historical Context

This verse is part of Psalm 105, which is a historical psalm that recounts the history of the people of Israel and God’s faithfulness to them. This particular verse is traditionally associated with Joseph, son of Jacob, whose story is told in the latter part of the Book of Genesis. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, ended up in Egypt, and eventually rose to prominence when Pharaoh made him the governor over all of Egypt due to his ability to interpret dreams and effectively manage the country’s resources in anticipation of a severe famine.

Theological Insights

The verse can be seen through various theological lenses. From a Christian perspective, it’s often viewed as an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and His power to lift the lowly to places of prominence for His purposes. It can be seen as an example of God’s providential care in the lives of His chosen ones, indicative of a God who is personally involved and who can bring good out of evil circumstances. From a Jewish perspective, the verse reaffirms the belief in a God who oversees history and who exalts the humble, supporting His people through their trials.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, the verse serves as a comforting reminder that personal hardships do not escape divine notice and that there is the potential for divine elevation in due time. It may also encourage individuals to maintain integrity and faithfulness during times of adversity. Additionally, this verse can be used to emphasize the importance of humility and patience, trusting in God’s timing for recognition and promotion rather than seeking to elevate oneself through self-serving means.

Cross-References

• Genesis 41:40-41: “Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou.”
• 1 Samuel 2:8: “He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory.”
• Luke 1:52: “He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.”

Language Study

The language used in this verse originally comes from the Hebrew text of the Old Testament. The word translated as “lord” is “adown,” which means master or owner, signifying a position of rulership or control. The word translated as “ruler” is “mashal,” which often denotes the role of a governor or a prince. “Substance” in Hebrew is “qinyan,” referring to possessions or property. Therefore, the original language emphasizes a complete and authoritative control over all that was owned by the Egyptian Pharaoh.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparatively, ancient Egyptian society was highly hierarchical, and Joseph’s rise to a position of high status as described in the Bible was remarkable. It is worth noting that many ancient cultures have myths and narratives where individuals rise from obscurity to greatness, often with divine endorsement. For example, some myths from the Ancient Near East include tales of heroes who gain favor with gods and are given dominion over vast domains.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly address scientific themes, modern psychological understanding recognizes the impact of personal growth and the development of leadership qualities in an individual’s life. The promotion of Joseph from a prisoner to a ruler reflects a psychological transformation that involves resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence—traits that are now considered critical for successful leadership.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Psalm 105:21 generally agree on its reference to Joseph’s narrative in Genesis. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for instance, discusses the irony of Joseph’s rise to power after his mistreatment and the faithfulness of God in rewarding him for his steadfastness. It is often used to illustrate how God works through individuals for the salvation and provision of His people. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary elaborates on the theme of God’s providential care throughout the history of Israel, where Joseph’s ascension is used as an example of divine promotion and involvement in the lives of His chosen people.