Psalms 78:55 (KJV)

What does Psalms 78:55 mean?

Psalms 78:55 describes how God drove out other nations before the Israelites, divided up the land for them as an inheritance, and settled the tribes of Israel in their own places. The verse highlights God’s active role in giving the Israelites a homeland and organizing their settlement.

This verse is part of a psalm where the writer, Asaph, is telling the story of Israel’s history to remind the people of God’s faithfulness. The focus here is on the moment after the Exodus, when God fulfilled His promise by giving the land of Canaan to the Israelites and assigning each tribe its territory.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 78:55

• "Out" (גָּרַשׁ, garash) means to drive out or expel. This word emphasizes that God forcefully removed the previous inhabitants, not just passively allowed Israel to enter.
• "Inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) refers to something received as a permanent possession. Here, it stresses that the land was not just territory, but a gift and legacy from God to Israel.
• "Line" (חֶבֶל, chevel) often means a measuring cord or boundary line. This word shows that the division of land was orderly and intentional, with each tribe receiving a specific, marked portion.
• "Dwell" (שָׁכַן, shakan) means to settle down or reside. The use of this word underlines the idea of Israel finally having a stable, lasting home after years of wandering.

Why Psalms 78:55 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that Israel’s possession of the land was by their own strength; it stresses that God actively arranged and secured their inheritance.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of Psalm 78, which is a call to remember God’s mighty acts and faithfulness throughout Israel’s history.
• It highlights the fulfillment of God’s promises to the ancestors of Israel, showing that God not only delivered but also provided and organized their future.