Psalms 78:34 - Exposition

When he slew them, then they sought him (comp. Exodus 32:28 , Exodus 32:35 ; Exodus 33:4 , Exodus 33:10 ; Numbers 11:33 ; Numbers 16:48 , Numbers 16:49 , etc.). The repentance is not always noticed in the Mosaic narrative, being, as it was, short-lived, if not even feigned ( Psalms 78:36 ). But, no doubt, after each outpouring of the Divine vengeance, there was at least some show of repentance, as noted in Exodus 33:4 . And they returned — i.e. turned back from their evil courses— and inquired early after God; rather, earnestly (Cheyne, Canon Cook).