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Psalm 78:20
ESV He struck the rock so that water gushed out and streams overflowed. Can he also give bread or provide meat for his people?"
NIV True, he struck the rock, and water gushed out, streams flowed abundantly, but can he also give us bread? Can he supply meat for his people?"
NASB Behold, He struck the rock so that waters gushed out, And streams were overflowing; Can He also provide bread? Will He prepare meat for His people?'
CSB Look! He struck the rock and water gushed out; torrents overflowed. But can he also provide bread or furnish meat for his people?"
NLT Yes, he can strike a rock so water gushes out, but he can’t give his people bread and meat.'
KJV Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed; can he give bread also? can he provide flesh for his people?
NKJV Behold, He struck the rock, So that the waters gushed out, And the streams overflowed. Can He give bread also? Can He provide meat for His people?”

What does Psalm 78:20 mean?

Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 78, verse-level content coming soon!
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Context Summary
Psalm 78:9–64 is a long summary of God's work on behalf of Israel. God freed the people from slavery in Egypt, guiding them day and night. He brought them across the Red Sea while drowning their Egyptian attackers. Despite their complaints and bitterness, the Lord provided food and water. When Israel finally entered the Promised Land, He empowered them to take it from the depraved Canaanites. Even then, the people betrayed their God. This led to the cycle of rescue and defeat described in the book of Judges.
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Chapter Summary
This psalm begins with a call for Israel to remember. In fact, they are told to remember remembering: God intends them to look back on their history during hard times. After setting this scene, Asaph gives a detailed list of ways in which the Lord has dealt with Israel. This includes punishment for blatant sin, but also consistent protection and care. Every time Israel sinned, God preserved and restored them, no matter how far they fell.
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