Psalms 107:23

KJV

¶ They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;

KJV (with Strong's)

They that go down {H3381} to the sea {H3220} in ships {H591}, that do {H6213} business {H4399} in great {H7227} waters {H4325};

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who go down to the sea in ships, plying their trade on the great ocean,

Berean Standard Bible

Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters.

American Standard Version

They that go down to the sea in ships, That do business in great waters;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 107:23 introduces the fourth and final group of individuals whose experiences serve as a profound testament to the Lord's enduring goodness and steadfast love: those who embark on perilous maritime journeys for trade and commerce. This verse vividly portrays human enterprise and inherent vulnerability against the backdrop of the vast, unpredictable sea, setting the stage for a dramatic demonstration of divine sovereignty and miraculous intervention in the face of overwhelming natural forces.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 107 is a magnificent psalm of communal thanksgiving, meticulously structured around a recurring four-fold pattern of distress, a desperate cry to the Lord, divine deliverance, and a subsequent call to praise. Before verse 23, the psalm has already depicted God's saving acts for three distinct groups: wanderers lost and hungry in the wilderness who cried out for guidance, whom God led to a city of habitation ([Psalm 107:4-9](/psalms/107-4-9 "Psalm 107:4-9 - God Delivers Wanderers")); prisoners suffering in darkness and chains due to their rebellion against God's word, whom God freed from their bonds ([Psalm 107:10-16](/psalms/107-10-16 "Psalm 107:10-16 - God Delivers Prisoners")); and those afflicted by illness and near death because of their foolish ways, whom God healed and rescued from destruction ([Psalm 107:17-22](/psalms/107-17-22 "Psalm 107:17-22 - God Delivers the Afflicted")). Verse 23 initiates the fourth scenario, focusing on mariners, and directly precedes the vivid account of a terrifying storm and God's miraculous calming of the seas in response to their desperate cries ([Psalm 107:24-30](/psalms/107-24-30 "Psalm 107:24-30 - God Delivers Mariners from Storms")), culminating in the repeated refrain, "Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!" This climactic inclusion of mariners emphasizes the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive work.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, seafaring was an inherently dangerous and often terrifying undertaking. Voyages were entirely at the mercy of unpredictable weather, strong currents, and the vast, often unknown, expanse of the open sea. Unlike the Phoenicians or Egyptians, Israel was not primarily a maritime nation, but they were certainly aware of and engaged in trade via the Mediterranean Sea, which was a vital artery for commerce and communication. The "great waters" (מַיִם רַבִּים, _mayim rabbim_) were not merely a physical description but also carried profound symbolic weight in ancient cosmologies, often representing chaos, danger, and forces beyond human control. The sea was frequently associated with primeval disorder (e.g., [Genesis 1:2](/genesis/1-2 "Genesis 1:2 - The Spirit Hovered Over the Waters")), and even monstrous entities like Rahab or Leviathan ([Psalm 74:13-14](/psalms/74-13-14 "Psalm 74:13-14 - God Crushed the Heads of the Sea Monsters")). Mariners, therefore, were seen as undertaking a particularly risky and vulnerable profession, making their deliverance by God a profound testament to His absolute power and providential care over all creation and all human endeavors, even those that ventured into the most perilous domains.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 107 and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights **human enterprise and vulnerability**, showcasing individuals engaged in vital economic activity ("do business") in an environment where their strength, ingenuity, and control are utterly insufficient against the formidable forces of nature. This sets the stage for the crucial theme of **divine intervention and sovereignty over creation**, as the subsequent verses vividly portray God's absolute power to command the winds and waves, demonstrating that even the most formidable natural elements are subject to His will, a theme powerfully echoed in [Psalm 89:9](/psalms/89-9 "Psalm 89:9 - God's Dominion Over the Sea") and [Psalm 65:7](/psalms/65-7 "Psalm 65:7 - God Stills the Roaring of the Seas"). Furthermore, by including mariners alongside wanderers, prisoners, and the sick, the psalm powerfully underscores the theme of **God's universal care and comprehensive providence**, asserting that His watchful eye and saving hand extend to all people, regardless of their specific circumstances, geographical location, or occupation. This demonstrates His boundless _hesed_ (steadfast love) and His responsiveness to the cries of all humanity in their varied struggles.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **go down (Hebrew, _yârad'_):** Derived from the primitive root H3381, this verb signifies "to descend" or "to go downwards." In the context of seafaring, it literally describes the physical act of descending from the land onto a ship, and then metaphorically entering the lower, often perilous, realm of the sea. This word subtly implies a movement from the relative safety and stability of solid ground into a domain of inherent danger, chaos, and the unknown, emphasizing the vulnerability of those who venture forth.
* **sea (Hebrew, _yâm'_):** This noun (H3220) refers to a large body of water, often specifically the Mediterranean Sea in biblical contexts. In ancient Near Eastern cosmology, the "sea" was not merely a physical entity but a powerful, untamed force, frequently associated with primeval chaos and forces beyond human control. Its presence here as the setting for human enterprise immediately establishes a sense of immense power and potential peril, highlighting the complete dependence of the mariners on a divine power greater than their own.
* **business (Hebrew, _mᵉlâʼkâh'_):** From H4399, this term denotes "employment," "work," or "occupation," specifically referring to non-servile labor or commerce. Its inclusion highlights that these mariners are engaged in legitimate, productive human activity, not merely aimless wandering. This grounds their vulnerability in the reality of daily human endeavor, underscoring that even in the pursuit of necessary economic activity, humanity remains subject to forces beyond its control, making God's intervention all the more significant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They that go down to the sea in ships,"**: This initial clause precisely identifies the specific group of people whose experiences will be recounted: those whose livelihood, trade, or journey necessitates venturing onto the ocean. The phrase "go down" (as explored in the key word analysis) carries a dual meaning, signifying both the literal descent onto a vessel and the metaphorical entry into a realm of potential danger and uncertainty. "In ships" specifies their mode of transport, emphasizing their reliance on human-made vessels which, despite their design and strength, are ultimately fragile and at the mercy of the immense power of the elements, setting the stage for their impending distress.
* **"that do business in great waters;"**: This second clause clarifies the fundamental purpose of their maritime ventures: "business" (מְלָאכָה, _mela'khah_), referring to work, trade, or commerce. This grounds the verse in the reality of human economic activity and enterprise. The phrase "in great waters" reiterates and amplifies the dangerous environment, underscoring that their daily work places them directly in a realm where they are constantly exposed to immense, uncontrollable forces. This highlights their profound dependence on a power greater than their own, making their subsequent cry for divine intervention not merely an act of desperation but a necessary acknowledgment of their complete vulnerability.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 107:23 masterfully employs several literary devices to effectively set the scene and foreshadow the unfolding narrative. **Imagery** is prominently used, painting a vivid mental picture of ships venturing onto the vast, potentially treacherous ocean for the purpose of trade. The phrase "go down to the sea" utilizes **metonymy**, where "sea" stands in for the entire act of seafaring and the associated dangers. Similarly, "ships" can function as a **synecdoche**, representing the mariners who sail them, thereby focusing on their vulnerability. The description of "great waters" serves as powerful **foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the immense, overwhelming power that will soon be unleashed in the terrifying storm described in subsequent verses. This sets the dramatic tension and prepares the reader for God's awe-inspiring intervention, emphasizing the stark contrast between human frailty and divine omnipotence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 107:23, by introducing the mariners, powerfully reinforces the overarching theological message of the psalm: God's compassionate and sovereign care extends to all people in all circumstances of distress. It highlights the inherent vulnerability of humanity, even in its most industrious and seemingly self-sufficient endeavors, when confronted with the overwhelming forces of nature or the unpredictable challenges of life. The "great waters" symbolize not only literal oceanic perils but also the metaphorical "storms" of life—crises, uncertainties, and challenges that threaten to engulf us. The psalm's consistent pattern of distress leading to a cry for help and subsequent divine deliverance underscores God's attentiveness to human need and His ultimate control over all creation, inviting profound trust and worship from all who experience His saving hand.

* [Psalm 89:9](/psalms/89-9 "Psalm 89:9 - God's Dominion Over the Sea")
* [Jonah 1:4](/jonah/1-4 "Jonah 1:4 - The Lord Hurls a Great Wind Upon the Sea")
* [Proverbs 31:14](/proverbs/31-14 "Proverbs 31:14 - The Virtuous Woman as Merchant Ships")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 107:23, though describing ancient mariners, speaks profoundly to the universal human experience of risk, uncertainty, and dependence in any era. It reminds us that our human enterprise, whether in business, travel, personal relationships, or daily life, often places us in "great waters"—situations beyond our immediate control where our strength, wisdom, or resources are utterly insufficient. These "waters" can manifest as financial crises, health battles, relational conflicts, periods of profound uncertainty, or even the overwhelming demands of our vocations. The verse sets the stage for the crucial lesson that follows: when we find ourselves overwhelmed by such circumstances, our only true recourse is to cry out to the Lord. It encourages us to acknowledge our limitations and God's limitless power, fostering a posture of humble reliance and fervent prayer. Just as God heard the mariners' cries and brought them to their desired haven, He promises to be our refuge and strength in every storm, demonstrating His universal care for all who call upon Him, inviting us to trust His sovereign hand even amidst the chaos.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "great waters" or overwhelming circumstances are you currently navigating in your life or work, where you feel a lack of control?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to view your inherent vulnerability in the face of life's unpredictable challenges?**
* **In what practical ways can you actively acknowledge God's sovereignty over your circumstances, even when they seem chaotic or beyond human solution?**
* **How does the inclusion of mariners in this psalm affirm God's care for all legitimate human endeavors, including your own profession, studies, or daily tasks?**

### FAQ
**What does "go down to the sea" imply beyond a literal descent?**

Answer: Beyond the literal act of descending from land onto a ship and then onto the sea's surface, the phrase "go down to the sea" carries a profound metaphorical implication of entering a realm of danger, uncertainty, and potential chaos. In ancient Near Eastern thought, the sea was often seen as a powerful, untamed force, frequently associated with primeval disorder and forces that defy human control. Thus, "going down to the sea" suggests venturing into a domain where human strength is limited and where one is exposed to forces far greater than oneself, highlighting the inherent vulnerability of the mariners. This sets the stage for a dramatic display of divine power over these formidable elements, as vividly seen later in [Psalm 107:24-30](/psalms/107-24-30 "Psalm 107:24-30 - God Delivers Mariners from Storms"), where God demonstrates His absolute sovereignty over the storm.

**Why are mariners specifically included in Psalm 107 alongside wanderers, prisoners, and the sick?**

Answer: The inclusion of mariners in Psalm 107 is crucial for demonstrating the universality and comprehensive scope of God's care and deliverance. The psalm systematically presents four distinct groups experiencing different forms of profound distress—wanderers lost in the wilderness, prisoners in darkness, the sick afflicted by folly, and mariners facing terrifying storms at sea. By encompassing such diverse circumstances, occupations, and forms of suffering, the psalm powerfully illustrates that God's goodness and steadfast love (Hebrew: _hesed_) extend to all humanity, regardless of their specific plight, location, or social standing. It underscores His sovereignty over all aspects of creation, including the elements, and His responsiveness to the desperate cries of all who seek His help, making His providence truly comprehensive and boundless, as He brings each group to their "desired haven" ([Psalm 107:30](/psalms/107-30 "Psalm 107:30 - God Brings Them to Their Desired Haven")). This universal reach of divine mercy is a central message of the psalm.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The depiction of God's power over the "great waters" in Psalm 107:23 and the subsequent verses finds its ultimate fulfillment and most profound expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament reveals Yahweh as the one who stills the raging sea ([Psalm 89:9](/psalms/89-9 "Psalm 89:9 - God's Dominion Over the Sea")), the New Testament presents Jesus as the incarnate God who commands the winds and waves with a mere word, bringing immediate calm to a terrifying storm ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Mark 4:39 - Jesus Calms the Storm")). This miraculous demonstration of authority over creation reveals His divine identity, proving that He is the very Lord who delivers the mariners in Psalm 107. Moreover, Jesus is not only the one who calms literal storms, but He is also the one who delivers humanity from the "great waters" of sin, death, and judgment. He is the ultimate "desired haven" for all who are tossed by the storms of life, offering an anchor for the soul that is firm and secure ([Hebrews 6:19](/hebrews/6-19 "Hebrews 6:19 - Our Anchor of Hope")). Just as the mariners cried out to the Lord and were saved, so too does Jesus invite all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest and salvation ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). He transforms those "doing business in great waters" into fishers of men ([Matthew 4:19](/matthew/4-19 "Matthew 4:19 - Jesus Calls Fishermen")), demonstrating His universal care and redemptive purpose for all humanity.

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

Revelation 18:17

For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,

Acts 27:9

Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished [them],

Acts 27:28

And sounded, and found [it] twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found [it] fifteen fathoms.

Psalms 48:7

Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind.

Isaiah 42:10

Sing unto the LORD a new song, [and] his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof.

Ezekiel 27:26

¶ Thy rowers have brought thee into great waters: the east wind hath broken thee in the midst of the seas.