Psalm 106:40

So the anger of the LORD burned against His people, and He abhorred His own inheritance.

Study Bible

So the anger of the LORD
The phrase "the anger of the LORD" is a powerful expression of divine displeasure. In Hebrew, the word for anger here is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean "nostril" or "face," suggesting a vivid image of God's wrath as a burning, consuming force. This anthropomorphic depiction emphasizes the seriousness of Israel's sin and the personal nature of God's response. Throughout the Old Testament, God's anger is not capricious but is a righteous response to covenant unfaithfulness. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and justice, calling His people back to repentance and obedience.

was kindled
The Hebrew root for "kindled" is "חָרָה" (charah), which means to burn or to be hot. This metaphor of fire illustrates the intensity and consuming nature of God's anger. In the ancient Near Eastern context, fire was often associated with divine presence and judgment. The kindling of God's anger signifies a turning point where patience gives way to necessary correction. It is a call to recognize the gravity of sin and the need for genuine repentance.

against His people
"His people" refers to the Israelites, whom God chose as His covenant nation. This phrase underscores the relational aspect of God's dealings with Israel. Despite their chosen status, they are not exempt from accountability. The covenant relationship established at Sinai included blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). This highlights the seriousness of their breach of covenant and the consequences that follow. It serves as a sobering reminder that privilege comes with responsibility.

and He abhorred
The word "abhorred" comes from the Hebrew "תָּעַב" (ta'ab), meaning to detest or loathe. This strong term conveys God's deep revulsion towards sin and idolatry. It is not a rejection of the people themselves but of their sinful actions and the corruption that has taken hold. In the biblical narrative, God's abhorrence is often a precursor to corrective action, aimed at restoring holiness and purity among His people. It is a call to return to the covenant and to the God who desires their wholehearted devotion.

His own inheritance
"Inheritance" in Hebrew is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which refers to a possession or heritage. Israel is described as God's inheritance, a treasured possession among the nations (Exodus 19:5). This term reflects the special relationship and the divine purpose for which Israel was chosen. The fact that God abhors His own inheritance underscores the depth of their apostasy. It is a poignant reminder of the potential loss of divine favor and blessing due to persistent unfaithfulness. Yet, it also points to the hope of restoration, as God's ultimate desire is to reclaim and renew His inheritance through repentance and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is holy, just, and righteous. His anger is a response to the unfaithfulness of His people.

2. His People (Israel)
The nation chosen by God as His inheritance, who repeatedly turned away from Him to idolatry and sin.

3. Inheritance
Refers to Israel as God's chosen people, whom He delivered from Egypt and established in the Promised Land.

4. Anger of the LORD
A divine response to the persistent disobedience and idolatry of Israel, reflecting God's holiness and justice.

5. Abhorrence
A strong term indicating God's deep displeasure and rejection of Israel's sinful behavior, despite their status as His inheritance.

Teaching Points

God's Holiness and Justice
God's anger is a reflection of His holiness and justice. He cannot tolerate sin and rebellion, even among His chosen people. This calls us to live in reverence and obedience to God.

The Consequences of Sin
Just as Israel faced consequences for their disobedience, we too must recognize that sin leads to separation from God and invites His discipline.

God's Covenant Faithfulness
Despite His anger, God remains faithful to His covenant. His discipline is meant to bring His people back to repentance and restoration.

Self-Examination
We should regularly examine our lives for areas of disobedience or idolatry that may kindle God's displeasure, seeking His forgiveness and grace.

Hope in Repentance
The account of Israel shows that repentance can restore our relationship with God. We are encouraged to turn back to Him, trusting in His mercy and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the phrase "the anger of the LORD was kindled" reveal about God's character and His response to sin?

2. How does the concept of Israel as God's "inheritance" deepen our understanding of His relationship with His people?

3. In what ways can we see the cycle of sin and repentance in our own lives, similar to the pattern seen in Israel's history?

4. How do other scriptures, such as Romans 1:18, expand our understanding of God's wrath and its implications for all humanity?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are living in obedience to God and not kindling His anger in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 9:7-8
Highlights Israel's repeated rebellion against God, which kindled His anger.

Judges 2:11-15
Describes a cycle of Israel's sin, God's anger, and subsequent oppression by enemies, illustrating the consequences of disobedience.

Isaiah 1:4
Portrays Israel as a sinful nation, provoking God's anger due to their rebellion and corruption.

Romans 1:18
Discusses God's wrath against all ungodliness and unrighteousness, showing that divine anger is not limited to Israel but extends to all humanity.