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 King James Version
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Context
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear. He burns the chariots in the fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted on the earth.”
11 The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
Related topics
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.”