King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:14 Mean?

Psalms 68:14 in the King James Version says “When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon. in it: or, for her, she — study this verse from Psalms chapter 68 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon. in it: or, for her, she

Psalms 68:14 · KJV


Context

12

Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. did: Heb. did flee, did flee

13

Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

14

When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon. in it: or, for her, she

15

The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan; an high hill as the hill of Bashan.

16

Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell in it for ever.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The Almighty scattering kings 'in it' (the land) was 'white as snow in Salmon'—a mountain in Israel. The image suggests complete victory, like snow covering a dark mountain, making it white and pure. God's triumph over earthly powers is so thorough that the very landscape reflects His purity and holiness. This points to Christ's ultimate victory that will renew all creation (Revelation 21:5).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Mount Salmon's exact location is uncertain, but the image of snow—rare in Israel—emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God's victory. His triumph transforms the battlefield into something beautiful and pure.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's victory bring purity and beauty to areas previously marked by conflict and sin?
  2. What spiritual 'kings' (powers, habits, fears) has God scattered in your life?
  3. In what ways does Christ's victory promise eventual transformation of all creation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
בְּפָ֘רֵ֤שׂ1 of 6

scattered

H6566

to break apart, disperse, etc

שַׁדַּ֓י2 of 6

When the Almighty

H7706

the almighty

מְלָ֘כִ֤ים3 of 6

kings

H4428

a king

בָּ֗הּ4 of 6
H0
תַּשְׁלֵ֥ג5 of 6

in it it was white as snow

H7949

to be snow-white (with the linen clothing of the slain)

בְּצַלְמֽוֹן׃6 of 6

in Salmon

H6756

tsalmon, the name of an israelite


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 68:14 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 68:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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