Psalm 105:32

He gave them hail for rain, with lightning throughout their land.

Study Bible

He gave them
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and active involvement of God in the events described. The Hebrew root here is "natan," which means "to give" or "to bestow." It underscores the idea that God is the ultimate source of all occurrences, both blessings and judgments. In the context of the plagues of Egypt, it highlights God's control over nature and His ability to use it to fulfill His purposes.

hail for rain
The substitution of hail for rain is significant. Hail, in the biblical context, is often associated with divine judgment and power. The Hebrew word for hail is "barad," which is used in the account of the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 9:18-26). This transformation from life-giving rain to destructive hail serves as a reminder of God's ability to alter the natural order to execute His will. It also reflects the severity of the judgment against Egypt, contrasting the usual blessing of rain with the curse of hail.

with lightning
The presence of lightning further intensifies the scene. Lightning, or "resheph" in Hebrew, is often associated with divine presence and power. It is a visual and auditory manifestation of God's might and serves as a reminder of His authority over creation. In the context of the plagues, it adds to the terror and awe of the event, demonstrating that the natural elements are at God's command.

throughout their land
This phrase indicates the widespread nature of the judgment. The land of Egypt, which was once a place of refuge and prosperity for the Israelites, becomes a stage for God's acts of judgment. The Hebrew word for land, "erets," can refer to a specific territory or the earth in general. Here, it underscores the comprehensive impact of the plague, affecting the entire nation and leaving no part untouched by God's power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, God is the one who exercises His power over nature to bring about hail instead of rain.

2. Egypt
The land where this event took place, as part of the plagues that God sent to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery.

3. Moses and Aaron
Though not mentioned directly in this verse, they were God's chosen leaders to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

4. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who hardened his heart against God’s commands, leading to the plagues.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who were enslaved in Egypt and were the beneficiaries of God's deliverance through these miraculous signs.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
This verse reminds us that God has complete control over the natural world. He can use it to fulfill His purposes and demonstrate His power.

Judgment and Mercy
The plagues, including the hail, were acts of judgment against Egypt but also acts of mercy towards the Israelites, as they were steps towards their liberation. This duality is a reminder of God's justice and His compassion.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings led to the plagues. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice and commands.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The plagues were part of God's plan to fulfill His promise to Abraham to deliver his descendants. This encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of God sending hail instead of rain demonstrate His sovereignty over creation?

2. In what ways can the plagues in Egypt, including the hail, be seen as both acts of judgment and acts of mercy?

3. How does Pharaoh's response to the plagues serve as a warning for us today in terms of responding to God's commands?

4. What are some modern-day examples where we can see God's control over nature, and how should that influence our faith?

5. How can we apply the lesson of God's faithfulness to His promises in our personal lives, especially when facing difficult circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 9:22-26
This passage describes the seventh plague of hail that God sent upon Egypt, which is directly referenced in Psalm 105:32. It highlights God's power and judgment.

Psalm 78:47-48
This passage also recounts the plagues, including the hail, emphasizing the destruction it brought to Egypt's crops and livestock.

Revelation 16:21
This verse speaks of hail as a form of judgment in the end times, drawing a parallel to the plagues in Egypt as a demonstration of God's power and justice.