Psalms 65:7

Authorized King James Version

Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַשְׁבִּ֤יחַ׀
Which stilleth
properly, to address in a loud tone, i.e., (specifically) loud
#2
שְׁא֥וֹן
the noise
uproar (as of rushing); by implication, destruction
#3
יַ֭מִּים
of the seas
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#4
שְׁא֥וֹן
the noise
uproar (as of rushing); by implication, destruction
#5
גַּלֵּיהֶ֗ם
of their waves
something rolled, i.e., a heap of stone or dung (plural ruins), by analogy, a spring of water (plural waves)
#6
וַהֲמ֥וֹן
and the tumult
a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth
#7
לְאֻמִּֽים׃
of the people
a community

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of covenant community reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection