He caused an east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind.

PSALMS 78:26KJV
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Psalms 78:26 (KJV)

What does Psalms 78:26 mean?

Psalms 78:26 says that God made the east wind blow in the sky and, by his strength, brought in the south wind. This verse highlights God's control over the natural world, showing that even the winds move by his command.

In this psalm, the writer (traditionally Asaph) is recounting Israel’s history to remind the people of God’s mighty acts and faithfulness. Here, the focus is on how God provided for the Israelites during their wilderness journey, specifically by sending winds that brought food (like quail) to them. The verse is part of a larger passage describing God’s miraculous care and power.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 78:26

  • "wind" (קָדִים, qādîm): This word refers to the east wind, which in the region often brings change or even harsh weather. Its mention here suggests a powerful, purposeful force.
  • "blow" (נָסַע, nāsa‘): This verb means to set in motion or to cause to move. The verse emphasizes that the wind’s movement is not random but directed by God.
  • "heaven" (שָׁמַיִם, shāmayim): This word means "sky" or "heavens." It underscores that the wind comes from above, reinforcing the idea of God’s authority over creation.
  • "power" (עֹז, ‘oz): This word means strength or might. The verse points out that it is by God’s strength, not by chance, that the winds are sent.
  • "wind" (תֵּימָן, tēmān): This refers to the south wind, which can bring warmth and change in weather. The use of both east and south winds shows God’s ability to command all directions.

Why Psalms 78:26 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that the events in Israel’s wilderness journey were just natural occurrences; it stresses that God was actively directing even the winds.
  • By mentioning both the east and south winds, the verse highlights the completeness of God’s control over nature, not just a single event or direction.
  • In the wider context of Psalm 78, this verse is part of a pattern showing God’s repeated care and intervention, even when the people doubted or rebelled.

Where else these words appear

“wind” Hebrew H8486 · used in 22 verses

  • Exodus 26:18 And thou shalt make the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards on the south side southward.
  • Numbers 10:6 When ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the south side shall take their journey: they shall blow an alarm for their journeys.
  • Song of Solomon 4:16 Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits.

“in” Hebrew H5090 · used in 31 verses

  • Genesis 31:18 And he carried away all his cattle, and all his goods which he had gotten, the cattle of his getting, which he had gotten in Padanaram, for to go to Isaac his father in the land of Canaan.
  • 1 Samuel 30:22 Then answered all the wicked men and men of Belial, of those that went with David, and said, Because they went not with us, we will not give them ought of the spoil that we have recovered, save to every man his wife and his children, that they may lead them away, and depart.
  • Psalms 80:1 To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph. Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth.

“wind” Hebrew H6921 · used in 64 verses

  • Genesis 41:6 And, behold, seven thin ears and blasted with the east wind sprung up after them.
  • Ezekiel 40:44 And without the inner gate were the chambers of the singers in the inner court, which was at the side of the north gate; and their prospect was toward the south: one at the side of the east gate having the prospect toward the north.
  • Ezekiel 48:3 And by the border of Asher, from the east side even unto the west side, a portion for Naphtali.

“power” Hebrew H5797 · used in 92 verses

  • Exodus 15:2 The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him.
  • Psalms 61:3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
  • Proverbs 10:15 The rich man's wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.