Psalms 105:25 Meaning and Explanation
“He turned their heart to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God caused Egypt to become hostile toward Israel and treat them with cunning oppression.
The Context of Psalms 105:25
Egypt's growing hostility toward Israel becomes part of God's plan to demonstrate his power.
What Does Psalms 105:25 Mean?
Here the psalm presents a theological explanation for Egypt's shift from hospitality to hostility. God 'turned their heart to hate'—not absolving Egypt of responsibility but affirming God's control over history's direction. As Israel grew in number and power, Egypt perceived them as a threat. God allowed and directed this enmity.
'Deal subtilly' means Egypt employed deceit and clever oppression, not open slaughter initially. They forced Israel into hard labor, trying to control and weaken a people whom God had promised to multiply. The psalm shows the irony: the more Egypt oppressed Israel, the more they multiplied.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 105:25
What does Psalms 105:25 mean?
God caused Egypt to become hostile toward Israel and treat them with cunning oppression.
What is the context of Psalms 105:25?
Egypt's growing hostility toward Israel becomes part of God's plan to demonstrate his power.