King James Version

What Does Psalms 107:30 Mean?

Psalms 107:30 in the King James Version says “Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 107 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.”

Psalms 107:30 · KJV

Context

28

Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.

29

He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.

30

Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

31

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

32

Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse describes the aftermath of deliverance. 'Then are they glad because they be quiet' shows relief and joy after terror. 'Glad' (samach, שָׂמַח) means to rejoice, be joyful. 'Because they be quiet' (shaqat, שָׁקַט) means tranquil, at rest, undisturbed. The contrast between verses 26-27 (terror, melted souls, wits' end) and verse 30 (glad, quiet) is dramatic. Deliverance produces joy. 'So he bringeth them unto their desired haven' means God guides to their intended destination. 'Desired haven' (mechoz chefets, מְחוֹז חֶפְצָם) is harbor of delight—safe port. God doesn't just calm the storm but brings them home. Complete salvation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

After Jesus calmed the storm, disciples arrived safely (Mark 6:51-53). After Paul's shipwreck, all 276 passengers reached land safely (Acts 27:44; 28:1). God doesn't merely rescue from danger but brings to intended destination. Spiritually, this pictures complete salvation: rescued from sin and death, brought safely to the heavenly haven. Philippians 1:6 promises 'he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.' God completes what He begins.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's deliverance include not just rescue but safe arrival at destination?
  2. What is the 'desired haven' God brings believers to ultimately?
  3. How does assurance of final salvation produce gladness even amid present storms?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וַיִּשְׂמְח֥וּ1 of 7

“Then are they glad”

H8055

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

כִֽי2 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יִשְׁתֹּ֑קוּ3 of 7

“because they be quiet”

H8367

to subside

וַ֝יַּנְחֵ֗ם4 of 7

“so he bringeth”

H5148

to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)

אֶל5 of 7
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מְח֥וֹז6 of 7

“haven”

H4231

a harbor (as shut in by the shore)

חֶפְצָֽם׃7 of 7

“them unto their desired”

H2656

pleasure; hence (abstractly) desire; concretely, a valuable thing; hence (by extension) a matter (as something in mind)

Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Psalms 107:30 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 Psalms 107:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 6:21

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