King James Version
What Does Psalms 2:4 Mean?
“He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.”
Context
2
The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,
3
Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
4
He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
5
Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. vex: or, trouble
6
Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. set: Heb. anointed upon: Heb. upon Zion, the hill of my holiness
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **He that sitteth.**—Here the psalm, with a sublimity truly Hebrew, turns from the wild confusion on earth to the spectacle of God looking down with mingled scorn and wrath on the fruitless attempts of the heathen against His chosen people.
**Laugh.**—We speak of the “irony of events “; the Hebrew ascribes irony to God, who controls events.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 2:4 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 2:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge