Old Testament
Psalms 105:36
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He struck also all the firstborn in their land, the chief of all their strength.
Compare translations
He smote also all the firstborn in their land, the chief of all their strength.
What Psalms 105:36 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse refers to a significant event during the Exodus when God inflicted a severe judgment on Egypt by killing all the firstborn sons. This act was a demonstration of God's power and a response to Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go. The term "firstborn" symbolizes the strength and future of a family or nation, making this judgment particularly devastating. It highlights the consequences of disobedience to God and serves as a reminder of His sovereignty over all creation. The verse emphasizes that God has authority over life and death, and it serves as a warning against pride and rebellion. The context of this verse is part of a larger narrative that showcases God's faithfulness to His people, Israel, and His ability to deliver them from oppression. This event ultimately led to the Israelites' liberation and the establishment of their identity as God's chosen people, setting the stage for their journey to the Promised Land.
How to apply Psalms 105:36 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of disobedience to God. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we respond to God's commands. We should strive to live in obedience, trusting in God's plans for our lives, and recognizing His authority over all things.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 105:36
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 105:36
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 105:36 mean?
Psalms 105:36 refers to God's judgment on Egypt during the Exodus, where He killed all the firstborn sons as a consequence of Pharaoh's refusal to free the Israelites. This act demonstrated God's power and authority over life and death.
What is the significance of the firstborn in Psalms 105:36?
In Psalms 105:36, the firstborn represents the strength and future of families and nations. The death of the firstborn was a devastating blow to Egypt, symbolizing the severe consequences of disobedience to God.
How does Psalms 105:36 relate to God's sovereignty?
Psalms 105:36 illustrates God's sovereignty by showing His control over life and death, as He executed judgment on Egypt. This event underscores that God has ultimate authority and power over all creation.
What lesson can we learn from Psalms 105:36?
From Psalms 105:36, we learn about the seriousness of disobedience to God and the importance of trusting His plans. It encourages us to reflect on our own actions and strive for obedience in our lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.