Psalms 105:28 Meaning and Explanation
“He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Darkness is one of the most vivid signs in the exodus story. Psalm 105 does more than list a disaster: it presents the plague as God acting through his chosen servants and speaking with authority over Egypt. The final clause is brief and has prompted differing readings, so faithful study benefits from staying close to the psalm's grammar and context.
Psalm 105:28 remembers the plague of darkness as an act sent by God at his word. The verse emphasizes divine command and execution, while its unstated subject in the final clause calls for careful reading of the surrounding lines.
The Context of Psalms 105:28
After recounting Joseph and Israel's move to Egypt, Psalm 105 says that Egypt came to hate God's people and deal subtly with his servants. Verses 26-27 introduce Moses and Aaron, whom God chose and sent to show his signs in Egypt. Verse 28 begins the list of plagues with darkness. Verses 29-36 continue with water turned to blood, frogs, flies, lice, hail, locusts, and the death of the firstborn. Verses 37-43 then celebrate Israel's departure, God's wilderness provision, and his remembrance of the promise to Abraham.
What Does Psalms 105:28 Mean?
"He sent darkness, and made it dark" presents the plague as a deliberate divine act. Darkness came because God sent it, and its effect matched his command. The repetition gives the line a severe simplicity. Egypt's gods, rulers, and resources could not command light when the LORD acted. The final words, "and they rebelled not against his word," have an unstated subject in English. The nearest named persons are Moses and Aaron in verses 26-27, so the words can be read as describing their obedience to God's command in carrying out his signs. The chapter does not pause to explain the grammar further, and we should acknowledge that brevity.
The verse belongs to a tightly ordered account in which God sends servants, speaks, and plagues come. Several following lines repeat the pattern: "He spake" and creatures came; "He gave" hail; "He smote" the land; "He brought" Israel out. Psalm 105's concern is God's sovereign faithfulness to the covenant promise remembered in verses 8-11 and again in verse 42. The darkness is part of the judgment by which Egypt's oppression ends and Israel is delivered. Exodus also records Pharaoh's repeated resistance during the plagues. Psalm 105 does not deny that larger narrative; its concise line highlights God's effective word and the obedience of his commissioned servants.
Darkness throughout Scripture can mark judgment, fear, or the limits of human power, while light is often associated with God's saving presence. Here the immediate meaning is the historical plague sent upon Egypt. The exodus becomes a foundational pattern for later biblical testimony about the LORD's power to redeem his people. In the Gospel accounts, darkness appears at the crucifixion, though the events are not identical and Psalm 105 does not directly predict that scene. The earned connection is the biblical seriousness of God's saving judgment: he acts against bondage and remembers his holy promise, bringing his people forth with joy.
Bible Verses Related to Psalms 105:28
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which may be felt.”
- Exodus 10:21
“But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let them go.”
- Exodus 10:27
“He sent Moses his servant; and Aaron whom he had chosen.”
- Psalm 105:26
“For he remembered his holy promise, and Abraham his servant.”
- Psalm 105:42
How to Apply Psalms 105:28 Today
When events feel dark or disordered, this verse calls us to remember that God's power is not weakened by forces that overwhelm us. It also honors obedient service. Moses and Aaron were sent into a fearful setting, and the psalm frames their work within God's command and purpose. We may bring our fears before the Lord, ask for light and wisdom, and remain faithful in the responsibilities he has clearly given us. The verse also invites sober gratitude for deliverance. God hears the plight of the oppressed, judges evil with righteousness, and carries forward the promises on which his people depend.
Reflection & Prayer
Where do we need to remember God's authority when fear or confusion seems to fill the whole scene? We may pray: "Lord of light and judgment, keep us faithful to your word. Give us courage in dark places, gratitude for your deliverance, and trust in your remembered promises."