How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert!
How many times did they make him angry in the wilderness, and cause him sorrow in the desert!
The writer is expressing grief over how frequently the Israelites rebelled against God during their time wandering in the wilderness, causing God pain and anger.
📚 Historical Context
This verse refers to the 40 years the Israelites spent wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. During this time, they repeatedly complained, disobeyed God's commands, and even worshiped false gods despite witnessing God's miraculous provision and protection. The psalmist is recounting this pattern of rebellion as a warning and reminder to future generations.
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