King James Version
What Does Psalms 106:37 Mean?
“Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,”
Context
35
But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.
36
And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.
37
Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,
38
And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood.
39
Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(37) **Devils.**—Literally, *lords, *meaning, of course, the false deities. The word is, no doubt, chosen to represent the meaning of the heathen gods’ names *Ba’alîm, Adonîm. *For the same Hebrew word, see Deuteronomy 32:17 (Judges 2:11, Baalim).
The Arabic equivalent of the Hebrew word became in Spain *the Cid, *and exists still in the Moorish *sidi, i.e.*, “my lord.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 106:37 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 106:37
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge