What does Psalms 105:31 mean?

He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts. Psalms 105:31

Explanation

The verse “He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts.” from Psalms 105:31 is a reference to the plagues that God inflicted upon Egypt, as recounted in the book of Exodus. This particular verse speaks to the fourth and third plagues, respectively. The “He” in this verse refers to God, who is portrayed as the supreme force behind these miraculous occurrences. On a literal level, the verse describes a severe infestation of varied flies and lice in Egypt. On a deeper level, it demonstrates God’s power and the notion that He can command nature to serve His purposes.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a Psalm that was written as a hymn or poetic retelling of the history of Israel, highlighting the mighty works of God in the journey of His chosen people. It is believed to have been composed during the period after the Israelites returned from their exile in Babylon. The mention of the plagues, including flies and lice, locates this event in the period of the Israelite’s enslavement in Egypt, specifically during the leadership of Moses and the subsequent Exodus.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse emphasizes the sovereignty of God and His control over creation. It shows God as an active participant in history, intervening on behalf of His people. Furthermore, this verse supports the recurring biblical theme of God’s judgment on oppressors and His deliverance of the oppressed. Interpretations may differ among various theological frameworks; some may see this as a literal historical event, while others may find symbolic or allegorical meanings, suggesting that the plagues represent spiritual afflictions or consequences of sin.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, this verse can be seen as a reminder of God’s protection and power to deliver. It serves as an encouragement to rely on God during times of oppression or hardship, reinforcing faith and trust in His providence. Additionally, it can speak to the concept of divine retribution, urging individuals to consider the consequences of their actions, especially when they affect others negatively.

Cross-References

• Exodus 8:16-17: “And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust of the land, that it may become lice throughout all the land of Egypt.”
• Exodus 8:24: “And the LORD did so; and there came a grievous swarm of flies into the house of Pharaoh, and into his servants’ houses, and into all the land of Egypt: the land was corrupted by reason of the swarm of flies.”
• Psalms 78:45: “He sent divers sorts of flies among them, which devoured them; and frogs, which destroyed them.”

Language Study

In the original Hebrew text, the words translated as “divers sorts of flies” and “lice” have deeper nuances. “Arob” (עָרֹב) refers not just to flies but to a mixture or swarm of insects, and “kinnim” (כִּנִּים) refers to lice or gnats. The use of these words illustrates the intensity and overwhelming nature of these plagues.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparatively, in ancient Egyptian culture, insects like flies and lice were considered nuisances and signs of impurity. The plagues are a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and their supposed power over nature. The narrative echoes the widespread ancient Near Eastern theme of gods demonstrating power over other gods through acts of nature.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the events described in this verse could be studied as extraordinary ecological phenomena. In the ancient world, such infestations could have been triggered by environmental factors, and the recounting of these events could be an interpretation of natural occurrences seen through the lens of divine intervention.

Commentaries

Regarding commentaries on this verse, there is a consensus among many biblical scholars and theologians on its placement in the narrative of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. Matthew Henry’s commentary, for instance, emphasizes God’s judgment on Egypt and His ability to control nature to bring about His will. Other scholars look into the symbolic significance of the plagues as God’s way of discrediting the Egyptian deities. Some modern theologians discuss the ethical implications of divine wrath and the consequences for the innocent in the narrative.