Habakkuk 3:9

KJV

Thy bow was made quite naked, [according] to the oaths of the tribes, [even thy] word. Selah. Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thy bow {H7198} was made quite {H6181} naked {H5783}, according to the oaths {H7621} of the tribes {H4294}, even thy word {H562}. Selah {H5542}. Thou didst cleave {H1234} the earth {H776} with rivers {H5104}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You brandish your naked bow and order it filled with arrows. (Selah) You split the earth with rivers.

Berean Standard Bible

You brandished Your bow; You called for many arrows. Selah You split the earth with rivers.

American Standard Version

Thy bow was made quite bare; The oaths to the tribes were asure word. [Selah Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Habakkuk 3:9 is a powerful verse within the prophet's prayer of awe and fearful hope, depicting God as a divine warrior preparing for battle on behalf of His people. It vividly portrays God's readiness for decisive action, His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises made to Israel, and His absolute sovereignty over creation, recalling past miraculous interventions as a guarantee of future deliverance and judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Habakkuk 3:9 is situated within the prophet's magnificent prayer and hymn ([Habakkuk 3:1-19](/habakkuk/3-1-19 "Habakkuk 3:1-19 - Habakkuk's Prayer")), which forms the climactic third and final chapter of the book. This prayer is a profound response to the dialogue between God and Habakkuk in the preceding chapters, where the prophet lamented the injustice within Judah and questioned God's use of the Babylonians as an instrument of judgment. Chapter 3 shifts from lament and dialogue to a dramatic vision of God's majestic **theophany** – a visible manifestation of God's glory and power. The imagery throughout this chapter, particularly from [Habakkuk 3:3](/habakkuk/3-3 "Habakkuk 3:3 - God's Coming from Teman") onward, portrays the Lord as a divine warrior marching forth from His dwelling place, recalling His mighty acts in Israel's past to assure the prophet of His future faithfulness and ultimate deliverance. Verse 9 specifically contributes to this portrayal by illustrating God's immediate readiness for battle and His historical acts of cosmic power.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Habakkuk is set against the tumultuous backdrop of the late 7th century BCE, a period marked by the decline of Assyrian power and the rise of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Judah was caught between these shifting powers, facing internal corruption and external threats. The prophet's initial complaint ([Habakkuk 1:2-4](/habakkuk/1-2-4 "Habakkuk 1:2-4 - Habakkuk's Complaint")) reflects the societal injustice prevalent in Judah, while God's response ([Habakkuk 1:5-11](/habakkuk/1-5-11 "Habakkuk 1:5-11 - God's Reply Regarding Babylon")) reveals the impending judgment through the Babylonians. The imagery of God as a divine warrior drawing His bow and cleaving the earth would have resonated deeply with ancient Near Eastern cultures, where deities were often depicted as cosmic warriors. For Israel, this imagery specifically evoked the Exodus and wilderness wanderings – foundational events where God demonstrated His power over nature and His enemies (e.g., [Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Parting of the Red Sea") and [Numbers 20:11](/numbers/20-11 "Numbers 20:11 - Water from the Rock")). This historical memory served as a powerful reminder of God's past faithfulness and a basis for hope in His future intervention.

* **Key Themes:** Habakkuk 3:9 contributes significantly to several major theological themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Power**, depicting God as absolutely in control of both human history and the natural world, capable of executing His will through overwhelming force. Secondly, it highlights **Covenant Faithfulness**, as God's actions are explicitly linked to "the oaths of the tribes, even thy word," emphasizing His unwavering commitment to His promises made to Israel (e.g., [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham") and [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses")). This reinforces the idea that God's judgment is not arbitrary but tied to His righteous character and His established covenant. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the theme of **God as a Divine Warrior**, a motif prevalent in Old Testament theology (e.g., [Exodus 15:3](/exodus/15-3 "Exodus 15:3 - The Lord is a Warrior")). This imagery assures Habakkuk and the people that God will actively fight on their behalf, ultimately bringing deliverance and justice, even amidst seemingly insurmountable challenges.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bow (Hebrew, _qesheth'_):** (H7198) This word refers to a weapon used for shooting, often symbolizing strength, power, and readiness for battle. In the context of "Thy bow was made quite naked," it signifies that God's weapon is not sheathed or hidden but uncovered and prepared for immediate, decisive action. It speaks to God's active engagement and readiness to execute judgment or deliverance.
* **Oaths (Hebrew, _shᵉbûwʻâh'_):** (H7621) Meaning "something sworn" or "an oath," this term refers to solemn promises or covenants. In this verse, "the oaths of the tribes" points to God's covenant promises made to the patriarchs (like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) and their descendants, the twelve tribes of Israel. It emphasizes God's unwavering commitment and faithfulness to His sworn word, indicating that His actions are consistent with His character and prior declarations.
* **Cleave (Hebrew, _bâqaʻ'_):** (H1234) A primitive root meaning "to cleave," "rend," "break," or "split open." This powerful verb denotes a forceful, supernatural act of division or breaking through. Its use here, "Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers," evokes miraculous historical events such as the parting of the Red Sea ([Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21 - The Parting of the Red Sea")) or the gushing of water from a rock ([Numbers 20:11](/numbers/20-11 "Numbers 20:11 - Water from the Rock")), highlighting God's absolute power and control over creation to achieve His purposes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thy bow was made quite naked":** This vivid anthropomorphic image portrays God as a warrior with His bow unsheathed, drawn, and ready for immediate action. The phrase "quite naked" (from H6181 and H5783) intensifies the sense of readiness, indicating that there is no delay or concealment; God's instrument of judgment and deliverance is fully exposed and poised to strike. It conveys God's active engagement and His preparedness to intervene decisively in human affairs.
* **"[according] to the oaths of the tribes, [even thy] word.":** This clause provides the divine motivation and justification for God's actions. God's readiness to act is not arbitrary but is "according to" His solemn promises ("oaths") made to the "tribes" (Israel) and is consistent with "thy word" (His revealed will and covenant declarations). This emphasizes God's faithfulness and integrity, assuring that His impending judgment and deliverance are rooted in His unchanging character and His covenantal commitments. The parallelism between "oaths of the tribes" and "thy word" underscores the reliability and certainty of God's promises.
* **"Selah.":** This term (H5542), frequently found in the Psalms, is a musical or liturgical notation. It typically indicates a pause for reflection, meditation, or a musical interlude. In this context, it serves as an emphatic marker, urging the reader or hearer to pause and ponder the profound truth just stated – God's readiness and faithfulness – before moving on to the next powerful image. It invites a moment of awe and contemplation regarding the divine warrior's character and purpose.
* **"Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.":** This powerful, poetic image underscores God's absolute sovereignty over creation and His ability to perform miraculous feats. It likely alludes to past historical events where God dramatically manipulated nature to save His people or judge His enemies, such as the parting of the Red Sea or the gushing of water from the rock in the wilderness. The act of "cleaving" signifies a forceful, unhindered breaking through of obstacles, demonstrating that no natural or human impediment can stand in the way of God's purposes. The "rivers" could refer to the gushing waters themselves or the deep ravines created by such a cataclysmic event, further emphasizing the scale of God's power.

#### Literary Devices
Habakkuk 3:9 is rich with powerful literary devices that enhance its dramatic impact and theological depth. **Anthropomorphism** is prominent in the opening phrase, "Thy bow was made quite naked," where God is depicted with human-like attributes, specifically as a warrior preparing for battle. This makes the abstract concept of divine power more relatable and immediate. **Parallelism** is evident in "the oaths of the tribes, even thy word," where two phrases convey a similar concept – God's unwavering commitment to His promises – reinforcing the certainty and reliability of His covenant. The phrase "Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers" employs vivid **Imagery** and **Hyperbole**, creating a powerful mental picture of God's overwhelming control over nature. While possibly alluding to historical events, the language elevates them to a cosmic scale, emphasizing God's boundless power. The inclusion of **"Selah"** serves as a **Liturgical Marker**, a pause for musical interlude or solemn reflection, inviting the audience to meditate deeply on the profound truths conveyed in the preceding lines, amplifying their significance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Habakkuk 3:9 powerfully articulates core theological truths about God's character and His interaction with His creation. It presents God as an ever-ready, active, and sovereign warrior who is utterly faithful to His covenant promises. The imagery of the "naked bow" signifies God's unwavering preparedness to intervene decisively, whether in judgment against wickedness or in deliverance for His people. This readiness is not capricious but is firmly rooted in "the oaths of the tribes, even thy word," underscoring God's integrity and the reliability of His covenantal commitments. Furthermore, the cosmic act of "cleaving the earth with rivers" demonstrates God's absolute dominion over nature, reminding us that no obstacle, natural or human, can thwart His divine purposes. This verse thus serves as a profound affirmation of God's omnipotence, His faithfulness, and His active presence in the unfolding of history, providing a basis for trust and awe even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

* [Exodus 15:3](/exodus/15-3 "Exodus 15:3 - The Lord is a Warrior")
* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Covenant Faithfulness")
* [Psalm 77:16-20](/psalm/77-16-20 "Psalm 77:16-20 - God's Power Over Creation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Habakkuk 3:9 offers profound spiritual nourishment, inviting believers to cultivate a deeper trust in God's active presence and unwavering faithfulness amidst life's uncertainties. The image of God's "naked bow" assures us that He is never caught off guard or unprepared. He is actively engaged in the affairs of the world, meticulously working out His redemptive purposes, even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust. This should inspire a confident hope, knowing that our God is not distant or indifferent but is poised to act on behalf of His people. Furthermore, the emphasis on "the oaths of the tribes, even thy word" serves as an anchor for our faith. In a world of broken promises, God's word stands eternal and unbreakable. We can rest in the certainty that every promise He has made, whether of provision, protection, or ultimate victory, will be fulfilled. Finally, "Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers" reminds us of God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and every circumstance. No problem is too big, no obstacle too formidable for Him. This truth should empower us to face our own "impossible" situations with courage, knowing that the God who parts seas and brings water from rocks is still at work. Our reflection on this verse ought to lead us to a place of profound awe and confident reliance on His mighty power and steadfast love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of God's "naked bow" challenge or comfort your understanding of God's active involvement in your life and the world?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust more deeply in God's "oaths" and "word," especially when circumstances seem to contradict His promises?**
* **Considering God's power to "cleave the earth with rivers," what seemingly insurmountable obstacles in your life or in the world do you need to surrender to His sovereign control?**

### FAQ
**What does "Thy bow was made quite naked" mean?**

Answer: This phrase is a vivid anthropomorphic image depicting God as a divine warrior. "Naked" in this context (from the Hebrew `ʻûwr` H5783 and `ʻeryâh` H6181) does not imply vulnerability but rather the opposite: it means uncovered, unsheathed, and fully prepared for immediate action. Just as an archer would draw their bow and have it "naked" or ready for shooting, this signifies God's readiness to execute judgment or deliverance without delay. It underscores His active engagement and preparedness to intervene decisively in the affairs of humanity.

**What is the significance of "the oaths of the tribes, even thy word"?**

Answer: This part of the verse highlights God's unwavering faithfulness and commitment to His covenant promises. "The oaths of the tribes" refers to the solemn promises God made to the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) and their descendants, the twelve tribes of Israel, which established His covenant relationship with them. "Even thy word" reinforces that God's actions are always consistent with His revealed will and His previous declarations. It assures Habakkuk, and us, that God's interventions are not arbitrary but are rooted in His unchanging character and His unbreakable covenant commitments, providing a solid foundation for trust in His future actions. This theme is central to God's relationship with His people throughout the Old Testament, as seen in passages like [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham") or [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Covenant Faithfulness").

**Why does the verse say "Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers"?**

Answer: This powerful poetic image emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and control over creation. The Hebrew word for "cleave" (`bâqaʻ` H1234) means to split, burst open, or break through, and it is notably used for the parting of the Red Sea in [Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21 - The Parting of the Red Sea") and the gushing of water from the rock in [Numbers 20:11](/numbers/20-11 "Numbers 20:11 - Water from the Rock"). This phrase in Habakkuk 3:9 likely alludes to such miraculous historical events where God dramatically manipulated nature to achieve His purposes, whether to deliver His people or to judge His enemies. It serves as a reminder that no physical or natural obstacle can stand in the way of God's will, demonstrating His boundless power and ability to make a way where there seems to be none.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Habakkuk 3:9, with its depiction of God as a divine warrior whose "bow was made quite naked" and who "didst cleave the earth with rivers," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The divine warrior motif, so powerfully displayed in the Old Testament, culminates in Christ, who is the true and final executor of God's judgment and the ultimate deliverer of His people. His first coming, though characterized by humility, was a decisive invasion into the dominion of darkness, foreshadowing His ultimate victory. He came as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), but also as the one who would [bind the strong man](/mark/3-27 "Mark 3:27 - Binding the Strong Man") and plunder his house. The "oaths of the tribes, even thy word" are perfectly fulfilled in Christ, for all of God's promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" in Him ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises in Christ")). He is the embodiment of God's faithful word, the one through whom the ancient covenants are brought to their glorious conclusion, establishing a new and better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant")). Furthermore, the imagery of God cleaving the earth with rivers, symbolizing His power over creation and His ability to overcome any obstacle, points to Christ's own miraculous power over nature ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Mark 4:39 - Jesus Calms the Storm")) and His ultimate triumph over sin, death, and the grave ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). At His second coming, Christ will return as the conquering King, with His "bow... quite naked," ready to execute final judgment and fully establish His righteous kingdom, bringing about the ultimate deliverance for His redeemed people ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). Thus, Habakkuk's vision of a powerful, faithful, and sovereign God finds its complete and glorious realization in Jesus Christ.

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

Psalms 7:12

If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready.

Psalms 7:13

He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors.

Psalms 78:15

He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave [them] drink as [out of] the great depths.

Psalms 78:16

He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers.

Psalms 105:41

He opened the rock, and the waters gushed out; they ran in the dry places [like] a river.

Luke 1:72

To perform the mercy [promised] to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;

Luke 1:75

In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.