King James Version
Psalms 18:11 in the King James Version says “He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.”
Psalms 18:11 · King James Version
He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness was under his feet.
And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.
He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.
At the brightness that was before him his thick clouds passed, hail stones and coals of fire.
The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice; hail stones and coals of fire.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“darkness”
H2822the dark; hence (literally) darkness; figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness
“round about”
H5439(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
“and thick clouds”
H5645properly, an envelope, i.e., darkness (or density, 2 chronicles 4:17); specifically, a (scud) cloud; also a copse
“of the skies”
H7834a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
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.
Psalms 18:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 18:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge