Habakkuk 2:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Habakkuk 2:14
14 For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Chapter Context
Habakkuk 2 is a prophetic dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, holiness, righteousness. Written during the neo-Babylonian rise to power (c. 605-597 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Babylon's rise to power raised questions about God using pagan nations as instruments.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Habakkuk and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Habakkuk 2:14
14 For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Analysis
Amidst woe oracles against Babylon, God promises ultimate restoration: 'For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea' (ki-timale ha'aretz lade'ath eth-kevod Yahweh kammayim yal-yam yekhassu). This is one of Scripture's most magnificent promises. 'The earth shall be filled' (timale ha'aretz)—complete, comprehensive saturation. 'With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD' (lade'ath eth-kevod Yahweh)—not mere intellectual knowledge but experiential knowing of God's manifest glory. The comparison 'as waters cover the sea' (kammayim yal-yam yekhassu) suggests absolute, universal coverage—just as water comprehensively fills and covers the sea, knowledge of God's glory will fill the earth. This promise looks beyond immediate judgment to ultimate redemption when God's glory universally revealed. It anticipates Christ's kingdom, the Great Commission's fulfillment, and ultimately the New Creation where God's presence fills all in all.
Historical Context
This verse echoes Isaiah 11:9, suggesting common prophetic vision of Messiah's kingdom. The 'knowledge of the LORD' promised here contrasts with the ignorance, idolatry, and rebellion characterizing current age. Though Babylon seemed to dominate Habakkuk's world, God promises a future when His glory, not human empires, fills the earth. This was partially fulfilled through Israel's return from exile, more substantially through Christ's first advent and gospel spread, and will be consummated at Christ's return when 'every knee shall bow' (Philippians 2:10-11) and God is 'all in all' (1 Corinthians 15:28). The promise sustained believers through exile and continues to encourage the church through trials—present suffering is temporary; coming glory is eternal and universal.
Reflection
- How does this promise of universal knowledge of God's glory provide hope during periods of judgment and suffering?
- In what ways has this prophecy begun fulfillment through Christ and the gospel, and how will it be consummated at His return?
- What does 'knowledge of the glory of the LORD' mean practically—how will this manifest when fully realized?
Word Studies
- Glory: כָּבוֹד (Kavod) H3519 - Glory, weight, honor
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 22:27, 86:9, Isaiah 11:9, Revelation 11:15, 15:4
- Glory: Psalms 72:19, Isaiah 6:3