Proverbs 8:28
When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
Original Language Analysis
בְּאַמְּצ֣וֹ
When he established
H553
בְּאַמְּצ֣וֹ
When he established
Strong's:
H553
Word #:
1 of 6
to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)
שְׁחָקִ֣ים
the clouds
H7834
שְׁחָקִ֣ים
the clouds
Strong's:
H7834
Word #:
2 of 6
a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
מִמָּ֑עַל
above
H4605
מִמָּ֑עַל
above
Strong's:
H4605
Word #:
3 of 6
properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc
בַּ֝עֲז֗וֹז
when he strengthened
H5810
בַּ֝עֲז֗וֹז
when he strengthened
Strong's:
H5810
Word #:
4 of 6
to be stout (literally or figuratively)
Historical Context
Ancient peoples didn't understand atmospheric science or hydrology mechanically. Israel knew God providentially controlled weather (Psalm 147:8, Jeremiah 10:13). Modern science explains mechanisms but doesn't eliminate divine wisdom. Discovery of natural law doesn't exclude God; it reveals His wise design. Newton, Kepler, and many founders of modern science were theists who saw science as thinking God's thoughts after Him.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you integrate scientific understanding of natural processes with theological affirmation of divine wisdom?
- What aspects of creation's order reveal wisdom that naturalistic explanations overlook?
- How should studying science enhance rather than diminish your appreciation of divine wisdom?
Analysis & Commentary
When God established clouds above and strengthened deep's fountains, wisdom was there. The Hebrew 'amats' (strengthen/make firm) describes securing atmospheric and hydrological systems. The water cycle - clouds, rain, springs, seas - operates by divine wisdom. Natural processes aren't autonomous but wisely designed and sustained. This anticipates Colossians 1:17's teaching that Christ 'upholds all things by the word of his power.'