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Psalms 114

Pslm 114, Ps 114, Psa 114, Psm 114, Pss 114


Psalms 114

1 When Israel went out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language;

2 Judah was his sanctuary, and Israel his dominion.

3 The sea saw it, and fled: Jordan was driven back.

4 The mountains skipped like rams, and the little hills like lambs.

5 What ailed thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? thou Jordan, that thou wast driven back?

6 Ye mountains, that ye skipped like rams; and ye little hills, like lambs?

7 Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob;

8 Which turned the rock into a standing water, the flint into a fountain of waters.

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Summary and the Meaning of Psalm 114 in the Book of Psalms from the KJV Holy Bible

Psalm 114, a part of the Book of Psalms from the King James Version (KJV) of the Holy Bible, is a hymn that commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent journey through the wilderness to the Promised Land. As a song of praise, it is filled with vivid imagery and metaphorical language that portrays the power and majesty of God, who guided and protected His chosen people throughout their trials and tribulations. The psalm's main themes include God's sovereignty, His providence, His power over nature, and His enduring commitment to His covenant with Israel. This essay will delve into these themes, exploring their implications and the meanings they bring to the psalm.

The Theme of God's Sovereignty

The psalm begins with a proclamation of the Israelites' escape from Egypt, a momentous event that demonstrated God's sovereignty over the nations. The psalmist writes, "When Israel went out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language; Judah was his sanctuary, and Israel his dominion" (Psalms 114:1-2). This verse establishes God's dominion over Israel, portraying Him as a divine King who governs His people and intervenes in human affairs to fulfil His divine plan.

The sovereignty of God is further emphasized in the psalm's depiction of how the natural elements react to His presence. In verses 3 and 4, the psalmist writes, "The sea saw it, and fled: Jordan was driven back. The mountains skipped like rams, and the little hills like lambs." These verses depict the sea parting and the Jordan River reversing its course, both events that occurred when God led the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. This imagery not only underscores God's authority over nature but also His power to alter the natural order of things for the benefit of His people.

The Theme of God's Providence

The theme of God's providence is another significant aspect of Psalm 114. God's providential care for His people is illustrated in the psalmist's description of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Despite the daunting challenges they faced, God provided for their needs, guiding them and ensuring their survival. This theme is encapsulated in verse 8, which states, "Which turned the rock into a standing water, the flint into a fountain of waters." This verse refers to the miracle of God providing water from a rock to quench the Israelites' thirst during their journey, a clear demonstration of His providential care.

The theme of providence also underscores the Israelites' dependence on God. Their survival and eventual arrival in the Promised Land were not due to their own strength or ingenuity but to God's intervention and guidance. This theme serves as a reminder of human dependence on divine providence, reinforcing the idea that God is the ultimate source of all blessings and sustenance.

The Theme of God's Power Over Nature

Another prominent theme in Psalm 114 is God's power over nature. This theme is most evident in the psalmist's descriptions of the sea fleeing, the Jordan River reversing its course, and the mountains skipping like rams at the presence of God. These vivid images serve to highlight God's supreme power, depicting Him as the ultimate force controlling the natural world. This theme is not only a testament to God's omnipotence but also a symbol of His ability to overcome any obstacle or adversity on behalf of His people.

The psalmist's depiction of nature's reaction to God's presence also serves to underscore the awe and reverence that God's power inspires. The psalmist asks, "What ailed thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? thou Jordan, that thou wast driven back? Ye mountains, that ye skipped like rams; and ye little hills, like lambs?" (Psalms 114:5-6). This rhetorical question emphasizes the dramatic and awe-inspiring impact of God's presence, suggesting that even the forces of nature tremble in His presence.

The Theme of God's Covenant with Israel

The theme of God's covenant with Israel also plays a significant role in Psalm 114. The psalmist's references to God's intervention on behalf of the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land serve as reminders of God's enduring commitment to His covenant with Israel. This covenant, initially established with Abraham and subsequently renewed with Isaac and Jacob, is a central theme in the Old Testament and underscores God's special relationship with the Israelites.

The psalmist's depiction of God as Israel's sanctuary and dominion further underscores this theme. By referring to God as a sanctuary, the psalmist portrays Him as a place of refuge and protection for His people. Similarly, by referring to God as Israel's dominion, the psalmist emphasizes God's role as their ruler and protector. These descriptions serve to underscore God's enduring commitment to His covenant with Israel and His role as their protector and guide.

Conclusion: The Meaning of Psalm 114

In conclusion, Psalm 114 is a hymn of praise that commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. It emphasizes the themes of God's sovereignty, His providence, His power over nature, and His commitment to His covenant with Israel. The psalm serves as a testament to God's power and majesty, His care and provision for His people, and His special relationship with the Israelites. It is a reminder of God's intervention in human history and His ability to alter the natural order of things for the benefit of His people. Above all, it is a celebration of God's faithfulness and His enduring love for His chosen people.



This article is informed by the King James Version of the Holy Bible, the authors' personal knowledge, considerations and experience, and additional materials and resources available in internet.

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