King James Version
What Does Psalms 78:15 Mean?
“He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths.”
Context
13
He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap.
14
In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.
15
He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths.
16
He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers.
17
And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15) **And gave . . .**—Literally, *and gave them to drink as it were a great deep, *or as we might say, “oceans of drink”—a poetical exaggeration; or are we rather to think of the gift of water as produced by striking or boring through the rock to the great ocean on which the earth was supposed to rest?
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 78:15 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 78:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge