Psalms 46:4

"though its waters roar and are troubled, though the mountains tremble with their swelling. Selah."

Key Reflection

The psalmist paints a vivid picture of nature in turmoil to symbolize the emotional state of people facing distress and fear. The original audience would have recognized these natural phenomena as metaphors for their turbulent times, perhaps recalling events like floods or earthquakes that were common and could be seen as divine judgments or warnings. The "Selah" at the end suggests a pause, possibly for reflection on these dire conditions before continuing with the psalm's message of hope in God’s steadfastness amidst chaos.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

There is a river -There is no allusion here to any particular stream or river, but the image is designed to represent a state of peace and calm security in contrast with the rough and troubled ocean. While the ocean rages, and foams, and dashes against the mountains as if it would overturn them, the state of Jerusalem, the city of God, was well represented by a calm and gently-flowing river; a river of full banks, diffusing joy and fertility and beauty wherever it flowed. This image, to represent happiness, abundance, peace, joy, is one that is often employed in the Scriptures. CompareIsaiah 32:2;Isaiah 33:21;Isaiah 41:18;Psalms 1:3;Revelation 22:1;Psalms 36:8.

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