What does Psalms 107:11 mean?

Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High: Psalms 107:11

Explanation

Psalm 107:11, “Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:”, expresses disapproval and calls out the consequences of disobedience and disrespect towards God’s commands and wisdom. It characterizes human behavior that is opposed to divine instruction and expresses a theological condemnation of such acts. The verse implies that individuals or groups have willfully chosen to reject what God has communicated, either through Scripture or other means, and this rebellion has spiritual repercussions.

Historical Context

The Psalms are a collection of songs, prayers, and poems that were written over centuries, with many attributed to King David’s authorship. Psalm 107 is part of the fifth and final book of the Psalms (Psalm 107-150) and is a post-exilic psalm, likely composed after the return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile. It reflects a communal sense of God’s deliverance and is considered a psalm of thanksgiving. The historical context suggests it may have been used in ritual or liturgical celebrations, recalling past tribulations and God’s salvific acts.

Theological Insights

This verse offers insight into the Judeo-Christian concept of divine retribution and the importance of obedience to divine commandments. From a theological perspective, rebellion against God and the rejection of His advice is viewed as sin, which separates individuals from God’s favor. Various traditions within Christianity might interpret this verse differently, considering either a more legalistic view of punishment for sin or a more grace-filled view that emphasizes repentance and reconciliation.

Practical Applications

In contemporary terms, this verse can be interpreted as a reminder to heed ethical and moral teachings. The implication for daily life is the importance of aligning one’s actions with one’s spiritual beliefs and values. Additionally, it invites self-reflection on how one may consciously or unconsciously rebel against principles that are believed to be divinely inspired.

Cross-References

• Nehemiah 9:26: “Nevertheless they were disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy law behind their backs, and slew thy prophets which testified against them to turn them to thee, and they wrought great provocations.”
• Isaiah 63:10: “But they rebelled, and vexed his holy Spirit: therefore he was turned to be their enemy, and he himself fought against them.”
• Jeremiah 5:23: “But this people hath a revolting and a rebellious heart; they are revolted and gone.”

Language Study

The original Hebrew language gives nuances to the verse that are important for a thorough understanding:

• “Rebelled” (מָרוּ, maru) indicates a strong and deliberate defiance.
• “Contemned” (נָאֲצוּ, na’atsu) suggests a scorn or disdain for God’s advice, not merely rejection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This theme of rebellion against divine authority is not unique to the Hebrew Bible but is found in other ancient cultures as well. For instance, in Greek mythology, Prometheus rebels against Zeus by stealing fire for humanity. In various religious systems, there is often the motif of humans or divine beings defying a higher authority, which serves as an explanation for the presence of suffering or chaos in the world.

Scientific Perspectives

While scientific perspectives do not directly apply to theological concepts, psychology and social sciences study rebellion and authority from the human behavioral standpoint. Factors contributing to obedience and defiance can be examined, and insights can be offered into why individuals or groups may choose to follow or reject authority figures, which can be tangentially related to individuals’ responses to divine commandments.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars offer various interpretations of Psalm 107:11. Some view it as a historical recount of Israel’s disobedience and the consequences that followed. Others see it as a poetic expression on the importance of obedience to God. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the sinfulness of mankind and God’s ongoing offer of redemption. The Pulpit Commentary discusses the contrast between the Israelite’s rebellion and God’s guidance. These commentaries accentuate the verse’s admonition against defiance and exhortation to heed the will of God.