Psalms 46:4

KJV

[There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.

KJV (with Strong's)

There is a river {H5104}, the streams {H6388} whereof shall make glad {H8055}{H8762)} the city {H5892} of God {H430}, the holy {H6918} place of the tabernacles {H4908} of the most High {H5945}.

Complete Jewish Bible

There is a river whose streams gladden the city of God, the holy habitation of 'Elyon

Berean Standard Bible

There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.

American Standard Version

There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 46:4 presents a profound image of divine provision and unwavering joy for God's people, even amidst global turmoil. It portrays a supernatural river whose life-giving streams bring gladness to "the city of God," signifying Jerusalem as the sacred dwelling place of the Most High. This verse serves as a powerful declaration of God's immanent presence and His capacity to sustain, refresh, and delight His chosen community, offering an oasis of peace and security in a world characterized by chaos and uncertainty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 46 is a "song of trust" that opens with a bold declaration of God as an ever-present refuge and strength in times of trouble ([Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")). The preceding verses vividly describe cosmic and earthly upheaval: mountains shaking, waters roaring, and nations raging ([Psalm 46:2-3](/psalms/46-2 "Psalm 46:2-3 - Though the Earth Give Way")). Against this backdrop of cataclysmic chaos, verse 4 introduces a stark and comforting contrast. While the world outside is in turmoil, within "the city of God," there is a serene and joyful flow of divine provision. This juxtaposition highlights God's sovereignty over chaos and His protective, life-giving presence within His sanctuary, leading to the confident refrain found later in the psalm: "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge" ([Psalm 46:7](/psalms/46-7 "Psalm 46:7 - The Lord of Hosts Is With Us")). The psalm's structure, punctuated by "Selah," invites contemplation on these profound truths.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Psalms reflects the spiritual and historical experiences of ancient Israel. Psalm 46 is traditionally linked to the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian siege during the reign of King Hezekiah, as powerfully recounted in [2 Kings 19](/2_kings/19 "2 Kings 19 - Hezekiah's Prayer and Sennacherib's Defeat") and [Isaiah 37](/isaiah/37 "Isaiah 37 - Sennacherib's Defeat"). This historical event would have deeply impressed upon the people the reality of God's protective presence. Geographically, Jerusalem was unique among major ancient cities in that it was not built on a large, perennial river. Instead, it relied on springs (like the Gihon Spring) and cisterns for its water supply. Therefore, the imagery of a "river" in Psalm 46:4 is highly symbolic, transcending literal geography to represent a supernatural, inexhaustible source of divine blessing, life, and refreshment. It contrasts with the often-turbulent "waters" of the nations mentioned earlier in the psalm, emphasizing God's unique and unfailing provision for His chosen city, which was understood as His earthly dwelling place.
* **Key Themes:** Psalm 46:4 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Presence and Security**. The "city of God" is secure not because of its fortifications, but because God Himself "tabernacles" there, making it a "holy place." This highlights God's immanent dwelling among His people, providing an unshakeable foundation even when the "earth gives way" ([Psalm 46:2](/psalms/46-2 "Psalm 46:2 - Though the Earth Give Way")). Secondly, the "river" with its "streams" symbolizes **Abundant Provision and Spiritual Refreshment**. This is not merely physical water but represents the overflowing grace, peace, and spiritual sustenance that God supplies. This divine provision brings profound "gladness," indicating a deep, inner joy that transcends external circumstances. Finally, the verse powerfully articulates the theme of **Spiritual Joy Amidst Turmoil**. While the surrounding world may rage and nations be in an uproar ([Psalm 46:6](/psalms/46-6 "Psalm 46:6 - The Nations Rage")), the city of God experiences an inner tranquility and delight. This peace is a direct result of trusting in God's sovereignty and experiencing His intimate presence, demonstrating that true joy is found in Him, regardless of the chaos outside.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **River (Hebrew, _nahar_):** While _nahar_ typically refers to a large, flowing body of water like the Nile or Euphrates, its use here for Jerusalem, a city not situated on such a river, immediately signals its symbolic nature. It represents an abundant, constant, and supernatural source of life, blessing, and divine favor. Unlike the chaotic, roaring "waters" mentioned in [Psalm 46:3](/psalms/46-3 "Psalm 46:3 - Waters Roar and Foam"), this river is a source of peace and gladness, flowing from God Himself.
* **City of God (Hebrew, _‘Ir Elohim_):** This phrase unequivocally refers to Jerusalem, the capital of Judah and the site of the Temple, where God's presence was believed to dwell. The designation "of God" emphasizes its divine ownership, special election, and sacred status. It is not merely a geographical location but a theological concept representing the community of God's people, chosen and protected by Him.
* **Most High (Hebrew, _‘Elyon_):** This title for God emphasizes His supreme sovereignty, transcendence, and exalted position above all earthly powers and deities. When combined with "tabernacles of the Most High," it highlights the paradox and wonder of the all-powerful, transcendent God choosing to dwell immanently among His people, making His holy presence accessible and bringing His supreme authority to bear in their defense and blessing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[There is] a river":** This opening phrase immediately establishes a source of life and blessing. The implied "there is" points to an existing reality, a divine provision that is always available. The "river" is not a natural feature of Jerusalem but a symbolic representation of God's abundant and supernatural supply.
* **"the streams whereof shall make glad":** The "streams" (_palagim_) suggest channels or divisions of this singular river, implying a controlled, purposeful, and pervasive distribution of its life-giving properties. The effect is "gladness" (_samach_), a deep, abiding joy and refreshment that goes beyond mere physical sustenance to encompass spiritual delight and well-being.
* **"the city of God":** This identifies the recipient of this divine gladness. As discussed, it refers to Jerusalem, the chosen dwelling place of God, and by extension, the community of His people. This gladness is specifically for those who are in covenant relationship with God and dwell in His presence.
* **"the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High":** This final clause further defines "the city of God" and underscores the reason for its gladness and security. It is "holy" because it is consecrated to God and is the place where the "tabernacles" (plural, perhaps referring to the various courts or the sacred precincts of the Temple) of the supreme God reside. God's dwelling makes the place sacred and ensures its blessedness and protection.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 46:4 is rich in literary devices that enhance its theological impact. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where the "river" is not a literal body of water but a symbolic representation of God's divine provision, grace, and life-giving Spirit. This metaphor is particularly striking given Jerusalem's actual geography, emphasizing the supernatural nature of this provision. Closely related is **Symbolism**, where the "city of God" symbolizes not just Jerusalem, but the entire community of God's people, and the "tabernacles of the Most High" symbolize God's immanent presence and dwelling among them. The verse also employs **Contrast**, implicitly setting the serene, life-giving river within the city against the roaring, tumultuous waters and shaking mountains of the world described in the preceding verses ([Psalm 46:2-3](/psalms/46-2 "Psalm 46:2-3 - Though the Mountains Shake")). This contrast highlights the secure, joyful peace found in God's presence, distinct from the chaos of the world. Finally, the use of **Personification** could be argued in "streams whereof shall make glad," as the streams are imbued with the capacity to bestow joy, underscoring their active role as conduits of divine blessing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 46:4 powerfully articulates the biblical truth that God is the ultimate source of life, joy, and security for His people. The imagery of a river flowing through "the city of God" speaks to the constant, abundant, and refreshing presence of God that sustains and delights those who dwell in Him. This spiritual gladness is not dependent on external circumstances but flows from the intimate reality of God's indwelling presence, transforming a place of potential vulnerability into a sanctuary of peace. It foreshadows the New Covenant reality where God's Spirit indwells believers, making them living temples and sources of spiritual life.

* [Ezekiel 47:1-12](/ezekiel/47-1 "Ezekiel 47:1-12 - The River from the Temple")
* [John 7:37-39](/john/7-37 "John 7:37-39 - Jesus' Invitation to Living Water")
* [Revelation 22:1-2](/revelation/22-1 "Revelation 22:1-2 - The River of the Water of Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For contemporary believers, Psalm 46:4 offers profound encouragement and a blueprint for spiritual vitality. The "city of God" can be understood in multiple layers: the global Church, the local community of believers, and even the individual heart where God's Spirit dwells. The "river" represents the inexhaustible wellspring of God's grace, peace, and spiritual refreshment, primarily through the Holy Spirit. In a world fraught with anxiety, instability, and uncertainty, this verse assures us that true and lasting gladness is found not in external circumstances or material possessions, but in the unwavering presence and abundant provision of God. It challenges us to cultivate a deeper awareness of God's indwelling Spirit, to draw daily from His refreshing presence through prayer, Scripture, and worship, and to allow His peace to permeate our lives, making us conduits of His joy to a thirsty world. Our hearts and communities, when centered on God, become places where His holy presence is manifest, bringing gladness and stability even when the world around us rages.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I personally experience the "streams" of God's provision and gladness in my daily life?**
* **In what ways can my local church or Christian community better embody "the city of God," a place where God's presence brings refreshment and joy amidst the world's turmoil?**
* **What anxieties or uncertainties am I currently facing, and how can the truth of God's indwelling presence and abundant provision in Psalm 46:4 bring me peace and gladness?**
* **How does my life reflect the "holiness" of being a dwelling place for the Most High?**

### FAQ
**Is the "river" in Psalm 46:4 a literal river or symbolic?**

Answer: The "river" in Psalm 46:4 is primarily symbolic. Jerusalem, the "city of God," is not located on a major river like many other ancient cities. While it had springs like the Gihon Spring, the imagery of a powerful "river" with multiple "streams" suggests something far grander and more abundant than its natural water sources. This symbolic river represents the supernatural, inexhaustible provision, grace, peace, and life-giving presence of God that sustains and delights His people. It contrasts sharply with the chaotic, destructive waters mentioned earlier in [Psalm 46:3](/psalms/46-3 "Psalm 46:3 - Though the Waters Roar"), emphasizing God's unique and unfailing spiritual sustenance.

**What is meant by "the city of God" and "the tabernacles of the most High"?**

Answer: "The city of God" refers to Jerusalem, the capital of Judah and the spiritual center where the Temple was located. It was considered God's chosen dwelling place on earth. The phrase emphasizes its divine ownership and special status. "The tabernacles of the Most High" refers to God's dwelling place within Jerusalem, specifically the Temple or its sacred precincts. The use of "Most High" (_‘Elyon_) highlights God's supreme authority and transcendence, yet He chooses to "tabernacle" or dwell among His people. Together, these phrases signify God's intimate, protective, and sanctifying presence within His chosen community, making it a source of gladness and security. This concept finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament Church and the New Jerusalem, where God truly dwells among His people ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Man")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 46:4, with its imagery of a life-giving river making glad the city of God, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true source of the "living water" that brings eternal gladness and refreshment. Jesus Himself declared, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him" ([John 7:37-38](/john/7-37 "John 7:37-38 - Jesus' Invitation to Living Water")). John clarifies that Jesus was speaking of the Holy Spirit, whom believers would receive. Thus, the symbolic river of Psalm 46:4 becomes a reality in the outpouring of the Spirit, made possible through Christ's redemptive work. Furthermore, "the city of God" is ultimately realized in the Church, the spiritual body of Christ, which is built on Him as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets")). Believers, individually and corporately, become the "holy place" and "tabernacles of the Most High," as God dwells in them through the Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You Are God's Temple")). The gladness promised in the psalm is the joy of salvation and the peace that surpasses understanding, found only in Christ ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). Ultimately, the vision culminates in the New Jerusalem, where the "river of the water of life" flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb, signifying God's eternal dwelling with His redeemed people in perfect joy and communion ([Revelation 22:1-3](/revelation/22-1 "Revelation 22:1-3 - The River of Life and the Tree of Life")).

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 22:1

¶ And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

Revelation 22:3

And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

Ezekiel 47:1

¶ Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house [stood toward] the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south [side] of the altar.

Ezekiel 47:12

And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.

Psalms 36:8

They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.

Psalms 36:9

For with thee [is] the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.

Psalms 48:8

¶ As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.