King James Version

What Does Psalms 135:10 Mean?

Psalms 135:10 in the King James Version says “Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings;” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 135 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings;”

Psalms 135:10 · KJV

Context

8

Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast. both: Heb. from man unto beast

9

Who sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants.

10

Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings;

11

Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan:

12

And gave their land for an heritage, an heritage unto Israel his people.

Read Psalms 135 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The historical recital advances from exodus to conquest: 'Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings.' The transition from Egypt to Canaan spans the wilderness wanderings implicitly. 'Great nations' (goyim rabbim) and 'mighty kings' (melachim atsumim) emphasize the formidable opposition Israel faced. The Hebrew 'atsumim' means numerous, powerful, mighty - these were not insignificant tribal chieftains but established rulers with armies. Yet God 'smote' and 'slew' them, using the same verb (nakah) applied to Egypt. The parallel construction reinforces God's consistent pattern: He defeats all who oppose His people and purposes. This encouraged later generations facing their own powerful enemies. The New Testament applies this principle spiritually - Christ has 'spoiled principalities and powers' (Colossians 2:15), defeating spiritual forces that oppose God's kingdom.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Israel's conquest of Canaan faced opposition from established city-states, each with its own king and military. Ancient Near Eastern kings often claimed divine authority and protection from patron deities. Israel's victories demonstrated not merely military superiority but the supremacy of Yahweh over the gods of Canaan.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does remembering God's past victories strengthen faith for present challenges?
  2. What "great nations" or obstacles has God helped you overcome?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
שֶֽׁ֭הִכָּה1 of 6

“Who smote”

H5221

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

גּוֹיִ֣ם2 of 6

“nations”

H1471

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

רַבִּ֑ים3 of 6

“great”

H7227

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

וְ֝הָרַ֗ג4 of 6

“and slew”

H2026

to smite with deadly intent

מְלָכִ֥ים5 of 6

“kings”

H4428

a king

עֲצוּמִֽים׃6 of 6

“mighty”

H6099

powerful (specifically, a paw); by implication, numerous

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 135:10 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 135:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 136:17-22Numbers 21:24Psalms 44:2-3

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