King James Version

What Does Psalms 105:20 Mean?

Psalms 105:20 in the King James Version says “The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 105 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free.”

Psalms 105:20 · KJV

Context

18

Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: he: Heb. his soul came into iron

19

Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him.

20

The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free.

21

He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance: substance: Heb. possession

22

To bind his princes at his pleasure; and teach his senators wisdom.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The king sent and loosed Joseph, the 'ruler of the people let him go.' Pharaoh's release of Joseph demonstrates how God controls even pagan monarchs to accomplish His purposes. Joseph went from prisoner to prime minister instantly when God's timing arrived. Human authorities unknowingly serve God's plans. This prefigures Christ's exaltation after suffering (Phil 2:9-11). The Reformed doctrine of God's sovereignty over all authorities (Rom 13:1) recognizes that even unbelieving rulers accomplish divine purposes.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Pharaoh released Joseph from prison and immediately elevated him to second-in-command over Egypt (Gen 41:14-45) when he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams. This dramatic reversal demonstrated God's sovereignty over pagan rulers.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's control over earthly authorities provide comfort when ungodly leaders seem to have power?
  2. What does Joseph's sudden exaltation teach about trusting God despite long seasons of obscurity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
שָׁ֣לַח1 of 6

“sent”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

מֶ֭לֶךְ2 of 6

“The king”

H4428

a king

וַיַתִּירֵ֑הוּ3 of 6

“and loosed”

H5425

to jump, i.e., be violently agitated; causatively, to terrify, shake off, untie

מֹשֵׁ֥ל4 of 6

“him even the ruler”

H4910

to rule

עַ֝מִּ֗ים5 of 6

“of the people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וַֽיְפַתְּחֵֽהוּ׃6 of 6

“and let him go free”

H6605

to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 105:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 105:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 41:14

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