Psalm 106:22

Modern

…wondrous works in the land of Ham, and awesome deeds by the Red Sea.

Traditional

Wondrous works in the land of Ham, and terrible things by the Red sea.

Literal

…wonders in the land of Ham, fearful things by the Sea of Reeds.

Latin

…mirabilia in terra Cham, terribilia in mari Rubro.

Hebrew

English

…wondrous works in the land of Ham, and awesome deeds by the Red Sea.

the land of Ham: This means Egypt (Psalm 106:21).

they … worshiped a molten image: The people forgot their Savior and worshiped idols (see Exodus 32:1–6).

The Israelite community in exile confessed the Lord’s goodness and justice and their own past sins. From their humble state in exile, they asked for redemption and restoration. They hoped to be gathered back from all the places the Lord had scattered them in his anger.
The psalm ends with a memory of the Lord’s past mercy and hope for renewed mercy (Psalm 106:44–48). Israel failed, but the Lord remains constant.
Verses 1, 47–48 (along with Psalms 96; 105:1–15) are included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chronicles 16:1–43.

Theme notes and profiles

Psalm 78:51
He struck all the firstborn of Egypt, the virility in the tents of Ham.
Psalm 105:23
Then Israel entered Egypt; Jacob dwelt in the land of Ham.
Exodus 14:25–28
He caused their chariot wheels to wobble, so that they had difficulty driving. “Let us flee from the Israelites,” said the Egyptians, “for the LORD is fighting for them against Egypt!”
Exodus 15:10
But You blew with Your breath, and the sea covered them. They sank like lead in the mighty waters.
Psalm 105:27–36
They performed His miraculous signs among them, and wonders in the land of Ham.

Egypt: Ancient nation; Israelites enslaved there; plagues and Exodus Red Sea: Sea crossed by Israelites in the Exodus