King James Version

What Does Jonah 2:3 Mean?

“For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. midst: Heb. heart”

Context

Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly,

And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice. by: or, out of mine affliction hell: or, the grave

For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. midst: Heb. heart

Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.

The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **Hadst cast.—**Rather, *didst cast.* (See Psalm 88:6.) **Floods.**—Literally, *river,* used here of the ocean currents. (Comp. Psalm 24:2.) **All thy billows and thy waves.—**More exactly, *all thy breakers and billows.* (See Psalm 42:7, where the same expression is used figuratively for great danger and distress.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Jonah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Jonah 2:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.