King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:15 Mean?

Psalms 68:15 in the King James Version says “The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan; an high hill as the hill of Bashan. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 68 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Psalms 68:15 · KJV


Context

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.

17

The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place. even: or, even many thousands


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The 'hill of God' is Bashan, known for its height and fertility—yet it's called 'high hill.' The comparison between Bashan's impressive height and God's chosen mountain (Zion) prepares for verse 16's revelation that God chooses the humble place. Bashan represents worldly greatness; Zion represents God's sovereign choice. This teaches that God's presence, not natural impressiveness, determines true significance—a principle fulfilled in Christ's humble incarnation.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Bashan, east of Galilee, featured impressive mountains and rich pastures (Deuteronomy 32:14, Amos 4:1). Its worldly prominence contrasts with Jerusalem/Zion's religious significance as God's chosen dwelling place.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you measure spiritual significance—by worldly impressiveness or God's presence?
  2. What 'high hills' of human achievement pale in comparison to what God has chosen?
  3. How does God's choice of the humble (Zion, Bethlehem, Nazareth) shape your values and ambitions?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
הַר1 of 8

The hill

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

אֱ֭לֹהִים2 of 8

of God

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

הַר3 of 8

The hill

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

בָּשָֽׁן׃4 of 8

of Bashan

H1316

bashan (often with the article), a region east of the jordan

הַר5 of 8

The hill

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

גַּ֝בְנֻנִּ֗ים6 of 8

an high

H1386

a hump or peak of hills

הַר7 of 8

The hill

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

בָּשָֽׁן׃8 of 8

of Bashan

H1316

bashan (often with the article), a region east of the jordan


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 68:15 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 68:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study