King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:22 Mean?

Psalms 68:22 in the King James Version says “The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea: — study this verse from Psalms chapter 68 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:

Psalms 68:22 · KJV


Context

20

He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.

21

But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.

22

The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:

23

That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies, and the tongue of thy dogs in the same. dipped: or, red

24

They have seen thy goings, O God; even the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God promises to 'bring again from Bashan' and 'from the depths of the sea,' meaning no distance or obstacle prevents Him from saving His people or judging enemies. Whether scattered in distant mountains or drowned in the sea, God's power reaches everywhere. This anticipates Christ's promise that nothing can separate believers from God's love (Romans 8:38-39) and His power to rescue from any peril.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Bashan represented distant territory beyond Israel's borders. The Red Sea demonstrated God's power over waters and death itself. Together, these images convey God's unlimited reach and saving power.

Reflection Questions

  1. What seemingly impossible situation do you need to trust God can reach into and redeem?
  2. How does God's power over every domain (land and sea) assure you of His total sovereignty?
  3. In what ways has God 'brought you back' from distant or desperate circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
אָמַ֣ר1 of 7

said

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

אֲ֭דֹנָי2 of 7

The Lord

H136

the lord (used as a proper name of god only)

מִבָּשָׁ֣ן3 of 7

from Bashan

H1316

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

אָ֝שִׁ֗יב4 of 7

I will bring again

H7725

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

אָ֝שִׁ֗יב5 of 7

I will bring again

H7725

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

מִֽמְּצֻל֥וֹת6 of 7

from the depths

H4688

a deep place (of water or mud)

יָֽם׃7 of 7

of 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


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 68:22 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 68:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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