King James Version

What Does Psalms 66:6 Mean?

Psalms 66:6 in the King James Version says “He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 66 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.”

Psalms 66:6 · KJV

Context

4

All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah.

5

Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.

6

He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.

7

He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

8

O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard:

Read Psalms 66 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The turning of the sea into dry land recalls the Red Sea crossing (Exodus 14), while passing through the flood references the Jordan crossing (Joshua 3). These historical acts demonstrate God's sovereign control over nature and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. The call to 'rejoice in him' grounds joy not in circumstances but in God's unchanging character and mighty acts on behalf of His people.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse anchors praise in Israel's foundational redemptive events—the Exodus and conquest of Canaan. These miracles established Israel as God's covenant nation and demonstrated His power over creation and pagan deities.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do God's past faithfulness and mighty acts strengthen your confidence in His present and future provision?
  2. What 'Red Sea moments' in your life serve as permanent reminders of God's delivering power?
  3. How does rehearsing God's historical acts of salvation deepen your worship and trust?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
הָ֤פַךְ1 of 9

“He turned”

H2015

to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert

יָ֨ם׀2 of 9

“the sea”

H3220

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

לְֽיַבָּשָׁ֗ה3 of 9

“into dry”

H3004

dry ground

בַּ֭נָּהָר4 of 9

“through the flood”

H5104

a stream (including the sea; expectation the nile, euphrates, etc.); figuratively, prosperity

יַֽעַבְר֣וּ5 of 9

“land they went”

H5674

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

בְרָ֑גֶל6 of 9

“on foot”

H7272

a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda

שָׁ֝֗ם7 of 9
H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

נִשְׂמְחָה8 of 9

“there did we rejoice”

H8055

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

בּֽוֹ׃9 of 9
H0

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 66:6 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 66:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 3:16Psalms 78:13Joshua 3:14Exodus 15:1-21Exodus 14:21-22Psalms 106:8-12

Places in This Verse

Red Sea 1Body of Water · Modern: Gulf of Suez · 28.75°N, 33.00°E21 verses across 9 books
View all places in Psalms 66 →

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