2 samuel 22:16 - Then the channels of the sea appeared. The foundations of the world were laid bare by Yahweh’s rebuke, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils.
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What does "2 samuel 22:16" mean?
This verse, found in 2 Samuel 22:16 (which is also Psalm 18:15 with slightly different wording), is a powerful piece of poetic imagery describing God's overwhelming power and intervention. Let's break it down:
"Then the channels of the sea appeared": This paints a picture of God's power being so immense that it dramatically reshapes the landscape. "Channels of the sea" likely refers to the deepest parts of the ocean floor, normally hidden. God's power is so strong that it exposes these hidden depths.
"The foundations of the world were laid bare": This continues the theme of unveiling the hidden and unshakable. The "foundations of the world" represent the deep, solid structures on which the earth is built. For them to be "laid bare" suggests a dramatic, almost apocalyptic event where even the most fundamental elements are exposed.
"by Yahweh’s rebuke, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils": This connects the dramatic geological changes to God's active involvement.
"Yahweh’s rebuke": This means God is responding to something, possibly wickedness or an enemy. His "rebuke" is not just a verbal reprimand; it's an action of overwhelming force.
"at the blast of the breath of his nostrils": This is a vivid anthropomorphism, attributing human-like characteristics to God. His "breath" is like a mighty wind or storm, a destructive force that accomplishes His will. The use of "nostrils" emphasizes the intensity and forcefulness of the "breath."
Interpretation:
This verse is part of a song of deliverance, where David is celebrating God's rescue from his enemies. The verse is not meant to be taken as a literal description of geological events, but rather as a poetic expression of God's power. It means:
God's Power is Unstoppable: The imagery of the exposed sea channels and foundations of the world demonstrates that nothing is beyond God's reach or control.
God Intervenes for His People: The verse highlights that God actively intervenes in the world to protect and deliver those who trust in Him.
God's Wrath is a Force of Nature: The "rebuke" and "blast of his nostrils" symbolize God's righteous anger against evil, a force that can shake the very foundations of the world.
God's Presence is Overwhelming: The dramatic imagery of exposed depths and foundations speaks to the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying presence of God.
In essence, the verse is a powerful statement about God's sovereignty, might, and ability to act decisively in the world to protect and deliver His people. It's a reminder that even the most formidable obstacles are nothing compared to the power of God.
2 samuel 22:16 - Then the channels of the sea appeared. The foundations of the world were laid bare by Yahweh’s rebuke, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils.
What does "2 samuel 22:16" mean?
This verse, found in 2 Samuel 22:16 (which is also Psalm 18:15 with slightly different wording), is a powerful piece of poetic imagery describing God's overwhelming power and intervention. Let's break it down:
"Then the channels of the sea appeared": This paints a picture of God's power being so immense that it dramatically reshapes the landscape. "Channels of the sea" likely refers to the deepest parts of the ocean floor, normally hidden. God's power is so strong that it exposes these hidden depths.
"The foundations of the world were laid bare": This continues the theme of unveiling the hidden and unshakable. The "foundations of the world" represent the deep, solid structures on which the earth is built. For them to be "laid bare" suggests a dramatic, almost apocalyptic event where even the most fundamental elements are exposed.
"by Yahweh’s rebuke, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils": This connects the dramatic geological changes to God's active involvement.
"Yahweh’s rebuke": This means God is responding to something, possibly wickedness or an enemy. His "rebuke" is not just a verbal reprimand; it's an action of overwhelming force.
"at the blast of the breath of his nostrils": This is a vivid anthropomorphism, attributing human-like characteristics to God. His "breath" is like a mighty wind or storm, a destructive force that accomplishes His will. The use of "nostrils" emphasizes the intensity and forcefulness of the "breath."
Interpretation:
This verse is part of a song of deliverance, where David is celebrating God's rescue from his enemies. The verse is not meant to be taken as a literal description of geological events, but rather as a poetic expression of God's power. It means:
God's Power is Unstoppable: The imagery of the exposed sea channels and foundations of the world demonstrates that nothing is beyond God's reach or control.
God Intervenes for His People: The verse highlights that God actively intervenes in the world to protect and deliver those who trust in Him.
God's Wrath is a Force of Nature: The "rebuke" and "blast of his nostrils" symbolize God's righteous anger against evil, a force that can shake the very foundations of the world.
God's Presence is Overwhelming: The dramatic imagery of exposed depths and foundations speaks to the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying presence of God.
In essence, the verse is a powerful statement about God's sovereignty, might, and ability to act decisively in the world to protect and deliver His people. It's a reminder that even the most formidable obstacles are nothing compared to the power of God.