Psalms 29:8

Authorized King James Version

PDF

The voice of the LORD shaketh the wilderness; the LORD shaketh the wilderness of Kadesh.

Original Language Analysis

ק֣וֹל The voice H6963
ק֣וֹל The voice
Strong's: H6963
Word #: 1 of 8
a voice or sound
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD H3068
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 2 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
יָחִ֥יל shaketh H2342
יָחִ֥יל shaketh
Strong's: H2342
Word #: 3 of 8
properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi
מִדְבַּ֥ר the wilderness H4057
מִדְבַּ֥ר the wilderness
Strong's: H4057
Word #: 4 of 8
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
יָחִ֥יל shaketh H2342
יָחִ֥יל shaketh
Strong's: H2342
Word #: 5 of 8
properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD H3068
יְ֝הוָ֗ה of the LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 6 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
מִדְבַּ֥ר the wilderness H4057
מִדְבַּ֥ר the wilderness
Strong's: H4057
Word #: 7 of 8
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
קָדֵֽשׁ׃ of Kadesh H6946
קָדֵֽשׁ׃ of Kadesh
Strong's: H6946
Word #: 8 of 8
kadesh, a place in the desert

Analysis & Commentary

The declaration 'The voice of the LORD shaketh the wilderness; the LORD shaketh the wilderness of Kadesh' describes divine power causing earthquakes. Even desolate wilderness trembles at God's voice. Kadesh was significant in Israel's history (Num. 13-14)—location of rebellion and judgment. Reformed theology sees God's voice as both creative and judicial—it creates order and executes judgment. Geography and history intersect as God's power extends over all places and times.

Historical Context

The wilderness of Kadesh was where Israel rebelled against entering Canaan, resulting in forty years wandering (Num. 14). God's shaking voice represents His judgment against rebellion—even empty wilderness cannot escape His authority.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics