King James Version
What Does Psalms 46:4 Mean?
“There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.”
Context
2
Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; midst: Heb. heart of the seas
3
Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
4
There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
5
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. and: Heb. when the morning appeareth
6
The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **A river . . .**—Heb., *nāhar, i.e., *a perennial stream, as distinguished from *nāchal, *a torrent bed dry except in the rainy season. Plainly, then, the “Cedron” is not here alluded to. But many commentators think “Siloam” is intended. (See Stanley, *Sinai and Palestine, *p. 180, and comp. Isaiah 12:3; Ezekiel 47:1-5; John 7:37.)
There may not, however, be any such local allusion. The river, flowing calmly and smoothly along, may be only a symbol of the peace and blessing of the Divine presence, as the tumult and tempest of the sea in the last verse are of the world’s noisy troubles. Indeed, the LXX. (comp. Prayer Book version) seems to connect the river of this verse with the waters of the preceding.
**Streams.**—See Note on Psalm 1:3, where the same word occurs.
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 46:4 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 46:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge