Psalms 78:51 Meaning and Explanation
“And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →God struck down all of Egypt's firstborn, the loss that affected the strongest families.
The Context of Psalms 78:51
God killed all of Egypt's firstborn, the future strength and hope of the nation.
What Does Psalms 78:51 Mean?
The final plague, culminating in the death of the firstborn—Egypt's ultimate tragedy. 'All the firstborn' indicates comprehensiveness; no exception is made. The firstborn represented the future, the heir, the continuity of family and nation. Their loss is irreplaceable.
'The chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham' (Ham being understood as Egypt) emphasizes that these were the strongest, most vigorous members of Egyptian society. The loss of an entire generation of firstborn sons is catastrophic to Egypt's future power and reproduction. This plague breaks Egypt's resistance completely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 78:51
What does Psalms 78:51 mean?
God struck down all of Egypt's firstborn, the loss that affected the strongest families.
What is the context of Psalms 78:51?
God killed all of Egypt's firstborn, the future strength and hope of the nation.