King James Version
What Does Habakkuk 3:6 Mean?
“He stood, and measured the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations; and the everlasting mountains were scattered, the perpetual hills did bow: his ways are everlasting.”
Context
4
And his brightness was as the light; he had horns coming out of his hand: and there was the hiding of his power. horns: or, bright beams out of his side
5
Before him went the pestilence, and burning coals went forth at his feet. coals: or, diseases
6
He stood, and measured the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations; and the everlasting mountains were scattered, the perpetual hills did bow: his ways are everlasting.
7
I saw the tents of Cushan in affliction: and the curtains of the land of Midian did tremble. Cushan: or, Ethiopia in: or, under affliction, or, vanity
8
Was the LORD displeased against the rivers? was thine anger against the rivers? was thy wrath against the sea, that thou didst ride upon thine horses and thy chariots of salvation? of: or, were salvation?
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(6) **He stood, and measured the earth . . .**—Better, *He has taken His stand and measured the earth, He has looked and made the heathen tremble; and the primeval mountains are broken up, the ancient hills sink down; His goings are as of old; i.e.,* His proceedings are the same as of old time, when He brought up Israel from Egypt. God measures or parcels out the earth; and the usurping invader is put to confusion. The mountains are convulsed, as was Sinai of old. (Comp. Judges 5:5, Psalm 68:8.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Habakkuk. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Habakkuk 3:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Habakkuk 3:6
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge