What does Psalm 46:10 mean?
Psalm 46 describes a world in turmoil: mountains shaking, seas roaring, and nations in uproar. In the middle of it all, God speaks: "Be still, and know that I am God." The Hebrew for "be still" means to stop, let go, or cease striving. It is first a command to the warring nations to lay down their weapons, and also an invitation to God's people to stop panicking and trust him. Knowing that he is God brings calm, because he rules over all the chaos. The verse ends with confidence that God will be exalted in all the earth, whatever happens around us.
Psalm 46:10 in the World English Bible
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted on the earth.”
Context
9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Psalm 46:10 mean?
Psalm 46 describes a world in turmoil: mountains shaking, seas roaring, and nations in uproar. In the middle of it all, God speaks: "Be still, and know that I am God." The Hebrew for "be still" means to stop, let go, or cease striving. It is first a command to the warring nations to lay down their weapons, and also an invitation to God's people to stop panicking and trust him. Knowing that he is God brings calm, because he rules over all the chaos. The verse ends with confidence that God will be exalted in all the earth, whatever happens around us.
What does Psalm 46:10 say in the KJV?
Psalm 46:10 (KJV) reads: “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”