Psalms 136:10 Commentary

Verse: “To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth forever.”

This verse serves as a poignant reminder of both God's judgment and mercy as it references the momentous occasion of the Exodus in Israel’s history. The psalmist begins with a historical recount of the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing the profound significance it had for the Israelite nation.

Historical Context

The mention of Egypt and the smiting of the firstborn alludes to the final plague that God sent upon Egypt before the Israelites were liberated from slavery. This event highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to execute judgment against those who oppress His people. Public domain commentaries provide an essential historical backdrop to this event, detailing the hardship faced by the Israelites and the divine intervention that followed.

Theological Implications

The verse encapsulates a deep theological reflection on God's nature—His justice in dealing with sin and His enduring mercy toward His people. Albert Barnes reflects on the judgment executed upon Egypt as a manifestation of God's power and righteousness, while simultaneously underscoring the subsequent mercy shown to Israel, which echoes throughout the entire chapter of Psalm 136.

God's Justice and Judgment

Matthew Henry emphasizes that the smiting of Egypt’s firstborn was a direct response to Pharaoh's hardness of heart and his refusal to free the Israelites. This serves as a public declaration of God’s supremacy over what was perceived as the greatest power on earth at that time. Such judgments are not arbitrary but are seen as a necessary response to acts of oppression and injustice.

God's Mercy

In contrast, Adam Clarke highlights the declaration of God’s mercy towards Israel. After the righteous judgment upon Egypt, God delivered His people, illustrating His covenant faithfulness. This dual theme of justice and mercy resonates throughout the text, demonstrating that while God does enact judgment, He also diligently pursues the redemption of those He loves.

Literary Structure

The structure of Psalm 136 is repetitive and refrains with a recurring phrase, “for his mercy endureth forever,” which serves as a refrain accentuating the theme of divine mercy. This method of repetition is not only a poetic device but also a theological assertation—the enduring mercy of God is an assurance for God's people that, despite their circumstances, His love persists.

Application for Today

For pastors, students, and theologians alike, this verse conveys a multifaceted truth about God's character that remains relevant. The narrative of Exodus and its portrayal in Psalm 136 serves as a reminder of the faithful nature of God—the one who saves, delivers, and punishes in His perfect wisdom.

• Encouragement in Trials: Believers can find comfort in acknowledging God's enduring mercy, even amidst trials and tribulations.
• Call to Justice: The text encourages a pursuit of justice in modern contexts, echoing God's disapproval of oppression.
• Reverence for God's Character: The verse invites deeper contemplation on the balance of God’s justice and mercy.

Conclusion

Psalm 136:10 stands as a powerful reminder that in God’s providence, there is both accountability for injustice and the promise of mercy for His people. This balance shapes the believer's understanding of God's nature and their relationship with Him. As we contemplate on this verse, may we find renewed appreciation for the historical acts of God that continue to speak to the nature of His covenant love, reaffirming that indeed, His mercy endures forever.