Psalms 29:7

Authorized King James Version

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The voice of the LORD divideth the flames of fire.

Original Language Analysis

קוֹל The voice H6963
קוֹל The voice
Strong's: H6963
Word #: 1 of 5
a voice or sound
יְהוָ֥ה of the LORD H3068
יְהוָ֥ה of the LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
חֹצֵ֗ב divideth H2672
חֹצֵ֗ב divideth
Strong's: H2672
Word #: 3 of 5
to cut or carve (wood, stone or other material); by implication, to hew, split, square, quarry, engrave
לַהֲב֥וֹת the flames H3852
לַהֲב֥וֹת the flames
Strong's: H3852
Word #: 4 of 5
flame
אֵֽשׁ׃ of fire H784
אֵֽשׁ׃ of fire
Strong's: H784
Word #: 5 of 5
fire (literally or figuratively)

Analysis & Commentary

The statement 'The voice of the LORD divideth the flames of fire' depicts divine control over destructive natural forces. Lightning ('flames of fire') obeys God's voice. Reformed theology sees providence—God governs all natural phenomena down to individual lightning bolts. Nothing occurs outside His decree. This assures believers that even chaotic, destructive forces serve God's purposes. Sovereignty extends to every detail of creation.

Historical Context

Lightning was mysterious and terrifying to ancient peoples, often attributed to gods' anger. Scripture reveals Yahweh controls lightning (Job 37:3, Ps. 135:7), demonstrating His sovereignty over what seems chaotic and random.

Questions for Reflection

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