Psalms 78:35 (KJV)

What does Psalms 78:35 mean?

Psalms 78:35 describes a moment when the people remembered that God was their secure foundation (“rock”) and their powerful deliverer (“redeemer”). The verse highlights a turning point where they recognized God’s role as both their protector and the one who rescues them from trouble.

This verse is part of a psalm where the writer, Asaph, is recounting Israel’s history to remind the people of God’s faithfulness despite their repeated forgetfulness and rebellion. Here, the focus is on a time when, after experiencing hardship, the Israelites recalled who God truly was to them: their unshakeable support and the one who could save them.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 78:35

• “remembered” (זָכַר, zakhar): This word means more than just recalling a fact; it often carries the sense of bringing something to mind with intention or acting on that memory. In this context, it suggests the people’s realization had weight and significance.
• “rock” (צוּר, tsur): In Hebrew poetry, calling God a “rock” points to strength, stability, and reliability. This image would remind listeners that God is a dependable foundation, especially in times of trouble.
• “redeemer” (גָּאַל, go’el): This word refers to someone who rescues or buys back, often used for a family member who saves another from danger or debt. Here, it emphasizes God’s role as the one who intervenes to deliver His people.

Why Psalms 78:35 matters

• This verse clarifies that remembering God is not just about mental recall but about recognizing His character and role in one’s life, especially after a period of wandering or hardship.
• The verse connects to the wider psalm, which repeatedly shows a cycle of forgetting and remembering God, highlighting the importance of returning to trust in Him.
• By using the images of “rock” and “redeemer,” the verse underscores God’s strength and His willingness to rescue, which would have been deeply reassuring to the original audience and remains a key theme throughout the psalms.