Psalms 105:20-22
The king sent and released him; the ruler of the peoples set him free; he made him lord of his house and ruler of all his possessions, to bind his princes at his pleasure and to teach his elders wisdom.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This verse highlights that Pharaoh, the "ruler of the peoples," is not just a king, but a figure with authority over many. The repeated emphasis on "king" and "ruler" underscores the immense power God used to orchestrate Joseph's release from what was likely a harsh prison.
This passage recounts Pharaoh's command to release Joseph from prison. This isn't just a simple act of mercy; it's the pivotal moment where God elevates Joseph from captivity to a position of immense power in Egypt. This dramatic turn of events directly precedes the arrival of Joseph's family, setting the stage for their salvation from famine.
Imagine being locked away, forgotten. Then, suddenly, you're called before the most powerful person in the land. This isn't just a lucky break – it's divine orchestration.
This verse highlights the dramatic reversal in Joseph's fortunes. He goes from the injustice of prison to the corridors of power. The text emphasizes that it was 'the king' and 'the ruler of the peoples' who acted. This wasn't a minor official; it was the highest authority. This swift, authoritative release underscores that God was working behind the scenes, manipulating even the highest earthly powers to bring about His plan for Joseph and, ultimately, for Israel.
Rulers often act on their own agenda, but this passage reveals a higher power pulling the strings. God uses earthly leaders as instruments, even when they are unaware.
The psalmist isn't just recounting a historical event; he's pointing to God's active involvement. Even though Pharaoh is the one giving the command, the ultimate power and authority belong to God. Pharaoh, the 'king' and 'ruler of the peoples,' is merely an instrument in God's hands. This demonstrates that God’s plans are not dependent on human wisdom or willingness, but are unstoppable, executed through whomever He chooses, for His ultimate purposes.
Understand the original words
melek · Hebrew Noun
One who holds sovereign authority over a nation; in the biblical narrative, earthly rulers are ultimately subject to the sovereign, providential rule of God.
pathach · Hebrew Verb
To liberate from bondage or restraint; in a theological sense, it prefigures the ultimate deliverance from sin and death achieved by God for His people.
shalach · Hebrew Verb
To grant liberty or remove from captivity; biblically, it signifies the restoration of dignity, purpose, and the ability to serve God freely.
adon · Hebrew Noun
A title of authority, often implying ownership, sovereignty, and the right to command or govern others. In a biblical context, it is frequently used for God (Adonai) and earthly rulers delegated with power.
c. 1700 BC
Joseph sold into slavery
Joseph, son of Jacob, is betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery in Egypt.
c. 1690 BC
Joseph imprisoned
False accusations lead to Joseph's imprisonment in Egypt, despite his faithfulness.
c. 1685 BC— this verse
Pharaoh's dreams and Joseph's release
Pharaoh has troubling dreams; the cupbearer remembers Joseph's skill in interpreting dreams, leading to Joseph's summons and release from prison.
c. 1685 BC
Joseph interprets dreams and rises to power
Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, prophesying a great famine, and is appointed second-in-command over all Egypt to prepare for it.
c. 1675 BC
Jacob and his family move to Egypt
During the famine, Jacob and his entire family relocate to Egypt, settling in the land of Goshen.
This verse is a direct historical reference within the Psalm, describing the very event of Joseph being brought out of prison at Pharaoh's command, which this Psalm is recounting.
Job 36:15This passage speaks to God delivering the afflicted and opening their ear in distress, mirroring how God used Joseph's release to bring about deliverance for many during the famine.
Acts 12:6-11This New Testament account parallels Joseph's miraculous release from prison, showing an angel freeing Peter from Herod's confinement, illustrating God's power to liberate His servants through seemingly impossible means.
Isaiah 42:7This prophetic verse speaks of God opening the eyes of the blind and bringing prisoners out of the dungeon, which aligns with the theme of divine intervention and liberation found in Joseph's story.
pulpitPsalms 105:20: "The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free."
Verse 20. - The king sent and loosed him (see Genesis 41:14). Even the ruler of the people. Pharaoh, ruler of the Egyptians. Let him go free; i.e. made him a free man, instead of a prisoner and a slave.
calvinPsalms 105:20-24: "The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free."
- The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and set him free. 21. He made him lord over his house; and ruler over all his substance: 22. To bind his princes [215] at his pleasure; and to teach his elders wisdom. 23. And Israel came into Egypt; and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham. [216] 24. And he greatly increased his people, and multiplied [217] them above their oppressor…
This verse highlights that Pharaoh, the "ruler of the peoples," is not just a king, but a figure with authority over many. The repeated emphasis on "king" and "ruler" underscores the immense power God used to orchestrate Joseph's release from what was likely a harsh prison.
This passage recounts Pharaoh's command to release Joseph from prison. This isn't just a simple act of mercy; it's the pivotal moment where God elevates Joseph from captivity to a position of immense power in Egypt. This dramatic turn of events directly precedes the arrival of Joseph's family, setting the stage for their salvation from famine.
This passage recounts Pharaoh's command to release Joseph from prison. This isn't just a simple act of mercy; it's the pivotal moment where God elevates Joseph from captivity to a position of immense power in Egypt. This dramatic turn of events directly precedes the arrival of Joseph's family, setting the stage for their salvation from famine.
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mashal · Hebrew Verb
One who exercises authority, governs, or manages. It implies the possession of power to direct affairs or people according to a superior's will.
sar · Hebrew Noun
Individuals of high rank or power within a society or government. Biblically, they are often seen as those responsible for the administration and justice of a people.
zaqen · Hebrew Noun
Older, experienced men who hold positions of authority, leadership, and judicial responsibility within a community or nation. They are expected to possess insight and discernment.
chokmah · Hebrew Noun
Biblical wisdom is the practical application of knowledge, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord to everyday life. It involves moral discernment and the ability to live in accordance with God's will.
"The king sent and released him; the ruler of the peoples set him free; he made him lord of his house and ruler of all his possessions, to bind his princes at his pleasure and to teach his elders wisdom." — This verse highlights that Pharaoh, the "ruler of the peoples," is not just a king, but a figure with authority over many. The repeated emphasis on "king" and "ruler" underscores the immense power Go…
