Old Testament
Psalms 78:49
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist describes a time when God expressed His anger and wrath towards the people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.
He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist describes a time when God expressed His anger and wrath towards the people. The phrase 'fierceness of his anger' indicates a strong and intense response to their disobedience. The mention of 'evil angels' suggests that God allowed harmful forces to influence or afflict them as a consequence of their actions. This reflects a biblical theme where divine judgment is enacted through various means, including spiritual entities. The verse serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the potential consequences that can follow. It highlights the importance of obedience and reverence towards God, as well as the reality of spiritual warfare that can arise from disobedience. Overall, this passage illustrates the gravity of God's displeasure and the lengths to which He may go to correct His people, urging them to return to righteousness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 78:49 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their alignment with God's will. It serves as a warning about the consequences of disobedience and the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God. By seeking to live righteously, we can avoid the pitfalls of divine judgment.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 78:49 mean?
Psalms 78:49 describes God's intense anger towards His people due to their disobedience. It indicates that as a consequence, He allowed harmful forces, referred to as 'evil angels,' to afflict them, highlighting the seriousness of turning away from Him.
What is the meaning of 'evil angels' in Psalms 78:49?
In Psalms 78:49, 'evil angels' refers to harmful spiritual beings that God permitted to influence or trouble His people as a form of judgment for their actions. This illustrates the concept of divine discipline through spiritual means.
How does Psalms 78:49 relate to divine judgment?
Psalms 78:49 illustrates divine judgment by showing how God reacts to sin with anger and allows negative influences to affect His people. It emphasizes that disobedience can lead to serious repercussions.
What themes are present in Psalms 78:49?
Key themes in Psalms 78:49 include divine anger, judgment, the consequences of sin, spiritual warfare, and the importance of obedience to God. These themes highlight the seriousness of maintaining a right relationship with God.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
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