Psalms 93:4

Authorized King James Version

The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִקֹּל֨וֹת׀
than the noise
a voice or sound
#2
מַ֤יִם
waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#3
רַבִּ֗ים
of many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#4
אַדִּ֖יר
is mightier
wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful
#5
מִשְׁבְּרֵי
waves
a breaker (of the sea)
#6
יָ֑ם
of the sea
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
#7
אַדִּ֖יר
is mightier
wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful
#8
בַּמָּר֣וֹם
on high
altitude, i.e., concretely (an elevated place), abstractly (elevation, figuratively (elation), or adverbially (aloft)
#9
יְהוָֽה׃
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection