Psalms 135:10
Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings;
Psalms 135:10
Verse 10 moves from Egypt to broader victories: “Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings.” This line echoes the Exodus deliverance expanded to victories in the conquest tradition worked into the psalms. It affirms that the Lord is the one who defeats sovereign powers and toppled rulers. The historical memory would remind Israel of their territorial and political history, including victories granted by divine intervention. The verse is a liturgical acknowledgment of God’s authority over nations, kings, and empires, reminding the people that success in battle and political legitimacy come from the Lord, not from human cunning or strength. The psalm’s cadence presents a pattern: God acts to redeem and protect His people, often by overturning oppressive powers.
Theologically, this verse centers on divine sovereignty in human history. It declares that God’s power redefines what counts as strength—royal iconography, military might, and political franchises pale in comparison to the Lord who can “smite” and “slay.” It anchors historical memory in faithfulness to the covenant and frames future hope in God’s decisive acts. The verse reinforces the theme that nations and kings are under God’s authority and judgment, guiding readers to worship and trust Him rather than human power.
Today this invites believers to critique idolatry of power—whether nationalist zeal, military might, or celebrity leadership—that substitutes God’s lordship for human supremacy. It encourages prudent discernment about political alliances and the use of force, always tested against God’s justice and mercy. In personal life, it calls to humility in leadership: true authority serves, protects the vulnerable, and seeks the common good. When confronted with daunting powers—corporate giants, unfair systems, oppressive regimes—remember that God’s sovereignty is not diminished by human strength and can bring about justice in unexpected ways. Use this as motivation to advocate for the vulnerable, promote peace, and trust God to guide authorities.
Cross-References: Deuteronomy 3:24-29; Psalm 2:10-12; Isaiah 40:26-31; Daniel 2:20-22; Luke 1:51-53