Psalms 106:22

Wonderous workes in the lande of Ham: and terrible things by the red Sea. Psalms 106:22 (KJV)

Psalm 106 is a historical psalm that recounts Israel’s journey and repeatedly emphasizes God’s faithfulness amid the nation’s disobedience and rebellion. Verse 22 highlights two of the most dramatic interventions of the Almighty: the wondrous works performed in the land of Ham, understood as Egypt, and the terrible things that occurred at the Red Sea.

The reference to the land of Ham points to Egypt, the region settled by the descendants of Ham, one of Noah’s sons. In the Exodus narrative God displayed extraordinary power through the ten plagues, compelling Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. These miraculous deeds are the “wondrous works” celebrated in the verse and serve as a vivid reminder of divine deliverance in the midst of oppression.

The “terrible things” at the Red Sea recall the dramatic crossing recorded in Exodus 14. Trapped between the sea and the pursuing Egyptian army, the Israelites witnessed God part the waters, walk on dry ground, and then close the waters on the Egyptian forces, drowning them. This event underscores God’s sovereign intervention on behalf of His people and the decisive judgment against those who opposed Him.

Throughout Psalm 106 the psalmist calls the community to remember these acts of deliverance and to give thanks, even when the people fall into sin. The psalm balances a sober account of Israel’s repeated rebellion with a confident affirmation of God’s enduring mercy and power. By recalling the miracles in Egypt and at the Red Sea, the psalmist invites believers today to trust in God’s faithfulness, to honor Him with gratitude, and to keep alive the memory of His wondrous works and terrible judgments as a source of encouragement and warning for future generations.