King James Version
What Does Psalms 65:7 Mean?
“Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.”
Context
5
By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation; who art the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon the sea:
6
Which by his strength setteth fast the mountains; being girded with power:
7
Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.
8
They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid at thy tokens: thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice. rejoice: or, sing
9
Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it. and: or, after thou hadst made it to desire rain
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **Tumult.**—Here we see the literal passing into the figurative. From the raging seas the poet’s thought goes to the anarchies arising from the wild passions of men, for which in all literature the ocean has furnished metaphors. (Comp. Isaiah 17:12.) In a well-known passage, the Latin poet Virgil reverses the simile, likening the sudden calm which succeeds the storm that wrecked Æneas to the effect produced by a leader of men in **a **seditious city. (Virgil, *Æn. *i. 148.)
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 65:7 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 65:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge