Psalms 105:12

When they were but a few men in number: yea very few, & strangers in it. Psalms 105:12 (KJV)

When they were

but a few men in number; yea, very few, and strangers in it. Psalms 105:12 (KJV)

In the preceding verses of Psalm 105 the psalmist recalls the covenant that God made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, promising them the land of Canaan as their inheritance. Verse 11 introduces the next generation, referring to Joseph, and verse 16 mentions that God called a famine upon the land, breaking the staff of bread. These verses set the stage for verse 12, highlighting the difficult circumstances faced by the Israelites.

The verse states that the Israelites were “but a few men in number; yea, very few.” This refers to the early stage of Israel’s history when the forefathers were still alive and the family of Jacob consisted of only a small number of individuals. God’s covenant promises were made to this modest group, and the eventual fulfillment would lead to the formation of the nation of Israel.

The second clause, “and strangers in it,” emphasizes that the Israelites were foreigners in the land of Canaan before it became their permanent possession. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelt as sojourners and pilgrims, reminding readers of their vulnerability and dependence on God’s guidance and provision.

Thus Psalm 105:12 serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of the nation of Israel. From a small family in a foreign land, God’s plan and promises unfolded, leading to the fulfillment of His covenant and the establishment of the Israelite nation in Canaan. The verse highlights God’s faithfulness in choosing and preserving His people despite their initial insignificance and status as strangers.