2 Samuel 22:16

KJV

And the channels of the sea appeared, the foundations of the world were discovered, at the rebuking of the LORD, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the channels {H650} of the sea {H3220} appeared {H7200}, the foundations {H4146} of the world {H8398} were discovered {H1540}, at the rebuking {H1606} of the LORD {H3068}, at the blast {H5397} of the breath {H7307} of his nostrils {H639}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The channels of the sea appeared, the foundations of the world were exposed at ADONAI's rebuke, at the blast of breath from his nostrils.

Berean Standard Bible

The channels of the sea appeared, and the foundations of the world were exposed at the rebuke of the LORD, at the blast of the breath of His nostrils.

American Standard Version

Then the channels of the sea appeared, The foundations of the world were laid bare, By the rebuke of Jehovah, At the blast of the breath of his nostrils.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 22:16, a profound poetic declaration from David's psalm of deliverance, vividly portrays the LORD's overwhelming power and majesty as He intervenes on behalf of His servant. This verse describes a cosmic display of divine might, where the deepest parts of creation—the channels of the sea and the very foundations of the world—are laid bare and exposed by God's authoritative rebuke and the forceful blast of His breath. It encapsulates God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and His irresistible power unleashed for the salvation of His chosen one.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of David's grand hymn of thanksgiving and praise, recorded in its entirety in [2 Samuel 22](/2_samuel/22 "2 Samuel 22 - David's Song of Deliverance"). This psalm is nearly identical to [Psalm 18](/psalm/18 "Psalm 18 - A Psalm of David") and is presented here as David's song of deliverance "on the day when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul" ([2 Samuel 22:1](/2_samuel/22-1 "2 Samuel 22:1 - David's Deliverance")). The preceding verses ([2 Samuel 22:8-15](/2_samuel/22-8 "2 Samuel 22:8-15 - God's Theophany")) describe a dramatic theophany, where God descends from heaven amidst smoke, fire, thunder, and lightning, shaking the earth and revealing His awesome power. Verse 16 continues this imagery, emphasizing the devastating effect of God's presence on the natural world, further illustrating the divine intervention that secured David's salvation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's life was marked by relentless pursuit and opposition, particularly from King Saul, who sought his life for many years. This psalm reflects the culmination of David's struggles and God's ultimate vindication and establishment of David's kingdom. In the ancient Near East, kings often composed hymns of victory, attributing their successes to their patron deities. David's psalm, however, uniquely attributes his deliverance solely to Yahweh, the God of Israel, emphasizing His unique power over all creation and His covenant faithfulness. The imagery of God's cosmic intervention, shaking the earth and revealing the deeps, would have resonated with ancient audiences familiar with storm deity motifs, but here it is applied to the LORD as the one true God, demonstrating His unparalleled authority and active involvement in human history.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in [2 Samuel 22](/2_samuel/22 "2 Samuel 22 - David's Song of Deliverance") and specifically in verse 16 include **God's Omnipotence and Sovereignty**, showcasing His absolute control over creation and His ability to manipulate natural forces to achieve His purposes. The verse also powerfully highlights **Divine Deliverance and Salvation**, as God's display of power is not arbitrary but is directly aimed at rescuing David from his enemies, underscoring the theme that God actively fights for His people. Furthermore, the imagery of God's "rebuking" and "blast of the breath" conveys **Divine Judgment and Righteous Indignation**, demonstrating God's decisive action against evil and His unwavering commitment to justice, as seen in His judgment against David's adversaries. This verse serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly to His anointed king, David, as promised in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rebuking (Hebrew, _ga'arah'_):** This term (גַּעֲרָה) signifies a strong, authoritative, and often forceful command or reprimand that brings about a desired effect, typically the subduing of an unruly force or the cessation of an undesirable action. In biblical literature, God's "rebuke" is a powerful act of divine control, often directed at the forces of chaos or enemies. For instance, God "rebuked" the Red Sea to part it ([Psalm 106:9](/psalm/106-9 "Psalm 106:9 - God Rebukes the Red Sea")), and He "rebukes" the devourer for His people's sake ([Malachi 3:11](/malachi/3-11 "Malachi 3:11 - God Rebukes the Devourer")). Here, it implies God's absolute authority over the deepest and most hidden parts of creation, causing them to respond to His command.
* **Blast of the breath of his nostrils (Hebrew, _nishmat ruach appo'_):** This vivid anthropomorphism (נִשְׁמַת רוּחַ אַפּוֹ) literally translates to "the breath of the spirit/wind of His nose/face." It powerfully conveys God's immediate, overwhelming, and irresistible power. The "nostrils" often symbolize anger or intense emotion in Hebrew idiom (e.g., "slow to anger" is "long of nostrils"). Thus, the "blast of the breath of his nostrils" suggests a furious, storm-like emanation from God's very being, signifying His intense displeasure with David's enemies and His decisive, destructive force unleashed against them. It evokes imagery of a divine tempest that shakes the cosmos.
* **Foundations of the world (Hebrew, _mosdot tevel'_):** The term "foundations" (מוֹסְדוֹת) refers to the base, support, or underlying structure of something, implying stability and permanence. "World" (תֵּבֵל, _tevel_) refers to the inhabited earth or the entire globe. The phrase "foundations of the world" thus denotes the deepest, most secure, and normally unshakeable parts of the earth. Their "discovery" or "appearing" signifies an unprecedented, cataclysmic event where God's power is so immense that it penetrates and exposes the very bedrock of creation, revealing what is normally hidden and demonstrating His absolute mastery over all things, even the seemingly immutable structures of the cosmos.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the channels of the sea appeared,"**: This clause describes the immediate and visible effect of God's intervention on the oceans. "Channels of the sea" refers to the deep, hidden troughs and beds of the ocean, typically concealed by vast amounts of water. Their "appearing" signifies the parting or receding of the waters, making the ocean floor visible. This imagery parallels the parting of the Red Sea ([Exodus 14:21-22](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21-22 - Parting of the Red Sea")), emphasizing God's control over the most formidable natural elements and His ability to manipulate them at will.
* **"the foundations of the world were discovered,"**: Building on the previous clause, this expands the scope of God's power from the sea to the entire earth. The "foundations of the world" represent the deepest, most stable, and hidden parts of the earth's structure. Their "discovery" or "being laid bare" implies a profound, earth-shattering event where the very bedrock of creation is exposed. This hyperbole underscores the immense and terrifying power of God, capable of shaking the cosmos to its core and revealing its innermost secrets.
* **"at the rebuking of the LORD,"**: This phrase identifies the direct cause of the cosmic phenomena described. It is not a natural disaster but a deliberate, authoritative act of God. The "rebuking of the LORD" signifies God's powerful, spoken command, which carries irresistible force and brings about immediate obedience from creation. It highlights God's personal and active involvement in the unfolding events, demonstrating His sovereignty over all things through His authoritative word.
* **"at the blast of the breath of his nostrils."**: This final phrase reinforces and intensifies the cause of the cosmic upheaval. It uses vivid anthropomorphic language to describe God's power emanating from His very being. The "blast of the breath of his nostrils" conveys an image of divine fury and overwhelming force, akin to a mighty storm or a volcanic eruption. It emphasizes the ease and immediacy with which God can unleash His power, transforming the stable cosmos into a scene of chaotic revelation, all to achieve His righteous purposes of judgment and deliverance.

#### Literary Devices
This verse is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid picture of God's cosmic power through the "channels of the sea" and "foundations of the world" being exposed. It employs striking **Anthropomorphism** by attributing human-like features and actions to God, specifically the "rebuking" (as if speaking) and the "blast of the breath of his nostrils" (implying a nose and breath). This device makes God's power more relatable and impactful to human understanding. **Hyperbole** is evident in the description of the "foundations of the world" being "discovered," an exaggeration that emphasizes the extraordinary scale of God's intervention. The verse also features **Parallelism**, where "the channels of the sea appeared" is paralleled by "the foundations of the world were discovered," and "at the rebuking of the LORD" is paralleled by "at the blast of the breath of his nostrils." This poetic technique enhances the rhythm and reinforces the central message of God's overwhelming power. Ultimately, the verse functions as a **Theophany**, a manifestation of God's presence and power, presented through the dramatic disruption of the natural order.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 22:16 profoundly articulates God's absolute sovereignty and omnipotence, revealing Him as the Creator who not only established the cosmos but also maintains ultimate control over its deepest, most hidden elements. This verse underscores the biblical truth that no part of creation is beyond God's reach or command. His power is not merely abstract but actively engaged in the affairs of humanity, particularly in delivering His chosen ones and executing justice. The "rebuking" and "blast of the breath" signify a divine wrath against sin and opposition, demonstrating that God's power is righteous and purposeful, always aligned with His covenant faithfulness and His plan for salvation. It reminds us that the God who created the world is the same God who intervenes in history to save His people.

* [Psalm 104:7](/psalm/104-7 "Psalm 104:7 - God's Rebuke of Waters")
* [Nahum 1:3-5](/nahum/1-3 "Nahum 1:3-5 - God's Power and Wrath")
* [Revelation 20:11](/revelation/20-11 "Revelation 20:11 - The Great White Throne Judgment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This powerful verse from David's song of deliverance offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today. When we face overwhelming circumstances, seemingly insurmountable obstacles, or feel as though we are drowning in "deep waters," 2 Samuel 22:16 reminds us that our God is not limited by any earthly or cosmic barrier. He is the God who can expose the very "foundations of the world" with a mere breath, demonstrating that no problem is too deep, no enemy too strong, and no situation too hidden from His all-seeing eye and all-powerful hand. This truth should inspire unwavering faith and trust, encouraging us to bring our most daunting challenges before Him, knowing that His power is active and available for those who call upon Him in faith. It also cultivates a deep sense of awe and reverence for the Creator, whose majesty and might transcend human comprehension, calling us to live in humble submission and grateful worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of God exposing the "channels of the sea" and "foundations of the world" deepen your understanding of His power?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's "rebuking" power to bring order or deliverance?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to face seemingly insurmountable challenges with greater faith?**
* **What does God's active intervention in David's life teach you about His faithfulness to His people today?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "channels of the sea" and "foundations of the world" being revealed?**

Answer: The revelation of the "channels of the sea" and "foundations of the world" signifies God's absolute and unchallengeable power over all creation, even its deepest and most hidden parts. These elements represent the most stable and impenetrable aspects of the cosmos. Their exposure by God's mere "rebuking" or "blast of the breath" demonstrates that nothing is hidden from Him, and nothing can withstand His will. It is a hyperbolic expression emphasizing the magnitude of God's intervention, showing that He can disrupt the very fabric of the universe to achieve His purposes, particularly in delivering His people and judging His enemies. This imagery parallels other biblical accounts of God's control over chaotic waters, such as the parting of the [Red Sea in Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Parting of the Red Sea").

**How does this verse relate to Psalm 18:15?**

Answer: 2 Samuel 22:16 is almost identical to [Psalm 18:15](/psalm/18-15 "Psalm 18:15 - Parallel to 2 Samuel 22:16"). The entire chapter of [2 Samuel 22](/2_samuel/22 "2 Samuel 22 - David's Song of Deliverance") is a parallel version of [Psalm 18](/psalm/18 "Psalm 18 - David's Song of Deliverance"), both attributed to David as a song of thanksgiving for deliverance from his enemies. The minor textual variations between the two accounts are common in ancient manuscripts and do not alter the core theological message. The presence of this psalm in both historical narrative (2 Samuel) and the collection of Israel's worship (Psalms) underscores its significance as a foundational declaration of God's mighty acts on behalf of His anointed king and, by extension, His people.

**What does "the blast of the breath of his nostrils" mean?**

Answer: This phrase is a powerful anthropomorphism, attributing human-like features and actions (nostrils, breath) to God to convey His immense power and intense emotion. In Hebrew idiom, the "nostrils" (אף, _aph_) can refer to anger or wrath. Therefore, "the blast of the breath of his nostrils" depicts God's righteous indignation and overwhelming force unleashed like a mighty, destructive storm. It's a vivid image of divine fury and irresistible power, suggesting that God's mere exhalation can shake the cosmos and achieve His will. It emphasizes the ease and immediacy with which God can act decisively.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Samuel 22:16 describes God's dramatic intervention on behalf of King David, its cosmic imagery and themes of divine power find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The God who "rebuked" the sea and exposed the "foundations of the world" is the same God revealed in the Incarnation. Jesus, as the Son of God, demonstrated this same divine authority over creation, rebuking the wind and the waves with a word, causing them to obey Him instantly ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Mark 4:39 - Jesus Calms the Storm")). His power to calm the storm, walk on water ([Matthew 14:25](/matthew/14-25 "Matthew 14:25 - Jesus Walks on Water")), and command demons ([Luke 4:36](/luke/4-36 "Luke 4:36 - Jesus Commands Demons")) showcases the divine authority inherent in Him, the very "breath of God" made flesh. Furthermore, the "foundations of the world" being "discovered" foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God's plan of salvation, hidden for ages but now unveiled in Christ ([Ephesians 3:9-11](/ephesians/3-9 "Ephesians 3:9-11 - The Mystery Revealed in Christ")). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, shaking the very foundations of spiritual darkness and revealing the depths of God's love and justice. He is the ultimate Deliverer, whose "rebuke" of sin and death secures eternal salvation for all who believe, fulfilling the ancient longing for a King whose power extends to the very ends of the earth and beyond.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nahum 1:4

He rebuketh the sea, and maketh it dry, and drieth up all the rivers: Bashan languisheth, and Carmel, and the flower of Lebanon languisheth.

Psalms 114:3

The sea saw [it], and fled: Jordan was driven back.

Psalms 114:7

Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob;

Habakkuk 3:8

Was the LORD displeased against the rivers? [was] thine anger against the rivers? [was] thy wrath against the sea, that thou didst ride upon thine horses [and] thy chariots of salvation?

Habakkuk 3:10

The mountains saw thee, [and] they trembled: the overflowing of the water passed by: the deep uttered his voice, [and] lifted up his hands on high.

Psalms 18:15

Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered at thy rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils.

Psalms 18:17

He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me.