Psalms 46:2

Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

Therefore will not we fear {H3372}{H8799)}, though the earth {H776} be removed {H4171}{H8687)}, and though the mountains {H2022} be carried {H4131}{H8800)} into the midst {H3820} of the sea {H3220};

Therefore we are unafraid, even if the earth gives way, even if the mountains tumble into the depths of the sea,

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas,

Therefore will we not fear, though the earth do change, And though the mountains be shaken into the heart of the seas;

Commentary on Psalms 46:2 (KJV)

Psalms 46:2 declares a profound statement of unwavering faith: "Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;" This verse is a powerful declaration of trust in God's steadfastness amidst the most cataclysmic and terrifying circumstances imaginable.

Context

Psalm 46 is a "Song of Zion," a hymn of confidence and praise for God's protection, often associated with the deliverance of Jerusalem. The psalm opens with the foundational truth in Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This sets the stage for the bold declaration of no fear in verse 2. Historically, many scholars link this psalm to significant moments of divine intervention, such as Judah's deliverance from the Assyrian invasion under King Hezekiah, where God miraculously protected His people (see 2 Kings 19:35). The imagery used speaks to a world turned upside down, emphasizing the ultimate chaos from which God provides salvation.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Faith and Courage: The primary message is an emphatic refusal to succumb to fear, even when faced with the most extreme forms of natural disaster or societal collapse. This courage is not born of human strength but from divine assurance.
  • God's Immutability and Sovereignty: Though the physical world—symbolized by the stable "earth" and "mountains"—may undergo violent change, God remains constant and in control. His nature provides ultimate stability when everything else is shaking.
  • Divine Refuge and Protection: Echoing verse 1, this verse reinforces the idea that God Himself is the ultimate shelter and source of security, even when the very foundations of existence seem to crumble around us. This trust in God transcends the visible circumstances.
  • Hyperbolic Language for Ultimate Chaos: The imagery of the earth being "removed" and mountains "carried into the sea" uses hyperbole to describe the absolute worst-case scenario. It signifies a complete breakdown of order and stability, yet even in such a state, the believer is called not to fear.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "removed" (מוּט, mut) can mean "to totter," "to shake," or "to be moved." It conveys a sense of instability and upheaval. The phrase "carried into the midst of the sea" paints a vivid picture of mountains, symbols of permanence and strength, being uprooted and plunged into the depths, representing utter destruction and chaos. This powerful imagery underscores the magnitude of the potential calamities the psalmist contemplates.

Practical Application

Psalms 46:2 offers profound encouragement for believers in any age. In a world often characterized by uncertainty, natural disasters, economic turmoil, and personal crises, this verse reminds us that true security is found not in stable circumstances but in an unchanging God. When our personal "earth" feels like it's being "removed" or our "mountains" of stability are "carried into the sea" through loss, illness, or societal unrest, this verse calls us to:

The message of Psalms 46:2 is a timeless beacon of hope, urging us to fix our gaze on the unshakeable God rather than the shifting sands of our world.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 23:4

    Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou [art] with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

  • Hebrews 13:6

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Luke 21:9

    But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end [is] not by and by.

  • Luke 21:11

    And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

  • Psalms 27:3

    Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this [will] I [be] confident.

  • Matthew 21:21

    Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this [which is done] to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

  • Luke 21:33

    Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.
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