Psalms 89:10

Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain; thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong arm.

Psalms 89:10 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 89 belongs to Ethan the Ezrahite. It opens with praise for God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, then centers on God’s covenant with David. In the surrounding verses, the psalmist celebrates God’s rule over the sea and over all creation. Verse 10 declares God’s victory over Rahab, showing that His power extends over every opposing force.

Meaning

The name “Rahab” here does not point to the woman of Jericho in Joshua. Instead, it symbolizes Egypt or the chaos and evil that resist God’s order. The same name appears in Psalm 87:4 and Isaiah 51:9, where it clearly means Egypt. The phrase “as one that is slain” shows a complete and final defeat. A slain enemy cannot rise again. God’s victory over chaos is total.

The line “thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong arm” pictures God’s mighty power. His “strong arm” is a common image for His saving acts, such as the deliverance from Egypt. At the Red Sea, God destroyed Pharaoh’s army, and the Egyptians lay dead on the shore. That historical event gives this verse its force.

Biblical connections

This verse recalls the Exodus, when God broke Egypt’s power through plagues and the sea. It also connects to the Song of Moses in Exodus 15, which celebrates God’s triumph. The same image of God’s arm appears in Isaiah 51:9, where the LORD’s arm is called to awake and crush Rahab. These links show that God’s power is consistent throughout Scripture.

Application

Believers can trust God’s sovereign strength rather than fear earthly or spiritual enemies. The God who crushed Rahab remains faithful to His covenant promises. His victory over chaos and evil is not partial but complete.

Reflection

This verse invites confidence in God’s rule over every threat. Because He has already triumphed over the greatest foes, His people can rest in His care.