Psalms 135:8 – “He struck down the firstborn of Egypt, the firstborn of people and animals.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 135:8 recalls a pivotal moment in Israel’s history when God demonstrated His power over Egypt. The striking down of Egypt’s firstborn was the final and most devastating of the ten plagues that God sent to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. This act was a direct display of God’s judgment against the oppressive Egyptian regime, which had refused to let His people go.
The verse highlights God’s justice and His willingness to act on behalf of His people. It shows that God is not indifferent to the suffering of the oppressed but will intervene to bring about justice. The plague on the firstborn was not just a random act of destruction; it was a purposeful demonstration of God’s authority over all nations, showing that He is the true God who defends His chosen people.
Historical Context
The event referenced in this verse is recorded in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 11-12). After enduring nine plagues, Pharaoh continued to harden his heart against letting the Israelites go free. God then sent the final plague, striking down the firstborn of every Egyptian household, including animals, while sparing the Israelites who marked their doorposts with the blood of a lamb. This event led to the first Passover, which became a defining moment for the Jewish people.
The remembrance of God’s deliverance from Egypt was central to Israel’s faith. It was a powerful reminder that God had not only chosen them but had also acted powerfully to save them. The psalmist includes this reference in Psalm 135 to remind the people of God’s faithfulness and to encourage them to trust in Him.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 135:8 highlights God’s sovereignty over the nations. It shows that God is not just the Creator but also the Judge who holds people accountable for their actions. His intervention in Egypt was a direct response to the cries of His people who were suffering under slavery. This verse emphasizes that God is both just and merciful — He punishes the wicked but protects those who belong to Him.
Additionally, the verse demonstrates that God’s judgments are purposeful. The plague against Egypt was not senseless violence but a calculated act to bring about freedom for His people. It shows that God’s actions, even when severe, are part of His plan to bring justice and redemption.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 135:8 is written in a straightforward manner, but its simplicity underscores its impact. By mentioning the death of the firstborn, the psalmist evokes a powerful image of God’s decisive intervention. This reference is not just a historical fact but a call to remember God’s faithfulness and power. The verse uses the striking down of the firstborn as a symbol of God’s authority over life and death and His ability to protect and deliver His people.
The structure of the verse — focusing on both the firstborn of people and animals — highlights the totality of God’s judgment. It wasn’t just a partial act but a complete and comprehensive strike against the Egyptian oppressors, which led to Israel’s freedom.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 12:12-13: God declares that He will strike down every firstborn in Egypt and pass over the homes marked with lamb’s blood.
- Exodus 4:22-23: God calls Israel His “firstborn son” and warns Pharaoh to let His people go or face the death of Egypt’s firstborn.
- Psalm 78:51: Another psalm that recounts how God struck down the firstborn of Egypt.
- Hebrews 11:28: By faith, Moses kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the Israelites.
- Romans 9:17: God used Pharaoh to demonstrate His power and to make His name known throughout the earth.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 135:8 serves as a reminder of God’s ability to deliver His people from bondage. Just as He acted to free the Israelites, God is still able to intervene in our lives when we face oppression or injustice. This verse assures us that God is on the side of those who seek Him and that He is not indifferent to suffering.
The verse also teaches us about God’s righteous judgment. In a world where it often seems like evil goes unpunished, this verse reassures us that God sees and will act in His perfect timing. It calls us to trust in God’s justice, even when we don’t see immediate results.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
While the judgment on Egypt might seem harsh, it actually reveals God’s deep love for His people. God heard the cries of the Israelites and acted to free them from a cruel oppressor. His willingness to strike down the firstborn of Egypt was a demonstration of His commitment to protecting and delivering His chosen people.
God’s love is not passive. It is active and sometimes involves difficult decisions to bring about justice and freedom. This verse shows that God’s love is not only gentle and kind but also strong and protective. He will do whatever it takes to defend those He loves.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The reference to the firstborn in Psalm 135:8 foreshadows Jesus Christ, who is often called the “firstborn” in the New Testament (Colossians 1:15). Just as the blood of the Passover lamb protected the Israelites, the blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God, protects believers from the judgment of sin (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was God’s ultimate act of deliverance. Through His death, Jesus took upon Himself the judgment that we deserved, just as the firstborn in Egypt experienced God’s judgment. This act of sacrificial love fulfilled God’s plan to free humanity from the bondage of sin and death.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does remembering God’s deliverance of His people in the past strengthen your faith today?
- What are some areas in your life where you need to trust God’s justice and timing?
- How can the story of God striking down the firstborn in Egypt help you understand the seriousness of sin and the need for deliverance?
- In what ways can you see Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise to deliver His people?
- How does knowing that God fights for His people encourage you in your current circumstances?
Psalm 135:8 reminds us of God’s powerful acts of deliverance and His unwavering commitment to those who are His. As we reflect on this truth, let’s trust in God’s ability to bring justice, deliver us from oppression, and lead us into the freedom He has promised.