Psalms 135:8

Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.

Psalms 135:8 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 135 is a hymn of praise that calls God’s people to worship Him for His greatness and power. The psalm rehearses the mighty acts of the Lord, especially His judgments on Egypt and His deliverance of Israel from slavery. Psalm 135:8 points to the tenth and final plague, when the Lord struck down every firstborn in Egypt, both human and animal.

This event took place during the Exodus. God sent Moses to Pharaoh with the command to release the Israelites. When Pharaoh refused, God brought ten plagues upon Egypt. The last plague was the most severe. In one night, the firstborn of every Egyptian family died, from the heir of Pharaoh to the firstborn of prisoners and cattle (Exodus 12:29). This judgment broke Pharaoh’s resistance and led to Israel’s release. The plague was the decisive blow that made Pharaoh willing to let the Israelites go (Exodus 12:31-33).

Meaning

The verse declares God’s absolute authority over life and death. The firstborn in ancient cultures held the place of inheritance, leadership, and the family’s future. By striking them down, God showed that no human power, not even Egypt’s might, can stand against Him. He is the sovereign judge who acts in history to fulfill His promises.

The plague also reveals God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. Israel is called God’s firstborn (Exodus 4:22). While Egypt’s firstborn were judged, Israel’s firstborn were spared through the blood of the Passover lamb. This contrast shows that God both judges sin and saves those who trust in Him. The deliverance of Israel, God’s firstborn, stands in sharp contrast to the judgment on Egypt’s firstborn, highlighting the special place of God’s people in His redemptive plan.

Biblical connections

The Passover lamb’s blood on the doorposts protected the Israelites from the destroyer (Exodus 12:22-23, 27). This event prefigures the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood brings salvation from sin and death. The judgment on Egypt and the deliverance of Israel together point to the greater redemption that God would accomplish through Christ.

The verse also warns against hardening one’s heart. Pharaoh repeatedly refused to obey God, and his stubbornness brought ruin. The same warning applies to every person who resists God’s call to repent and believe. God’s power over life and death is not only a comfort to His people but also a solemn call to humility before Him.

Application

Psalm 135:8 calls believers to remember God’s mighty acts and to trust in His power to save and judge. When we face impossible situations, we can recall that the Lord who struck down Egypt’s firstborn is the same God who watches over His people today. He is able to deliver, and He is faithful to His word.

This verse also urges us to worship God alone. The gods of Egypt were powerless to protect the firstborn. Only the Lord is sovereign over all nations and rulers. Therefore, we should not place our trust in human strength, wealth, or idols, but in the living God who acts in history. Remembering His past deliverance strengthens our faith for present trials and future hopes.

Reflection

Consider the seriousness of God’s judgment and the depth of His mercy. The same night that brought death to Egypt brought life to Israel. Through Christ, believers have passed from judgment to life. Let this verse lead you to thank God for His saving power and to live in humble obedience to Him.