Psalms 46:4

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

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

Psalm 46:4 (KJV) paints a vivid picture of divine provision and joy in the midst of turmoil. This verse is part of a psalm often called a "song of trust" or "a psalm for times of trouble," offering comfort and assurance of God's unwavering presence.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Book of Psalms contains hymns, prayers, and meditations that reflect the experiences of ancient Israel. Psalm 46 is traditionally associated with the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian siege in the time of King Hezekiah, as recounted in 2 Kings 19 and Isaiah 37. Unlike many ancient cities built on major rivers, Jerusalem relied on springs and cisterns for its water. The imagery of a "river" here is therefore highly symbolic, contrasting with the literal geographical reality and pointing to a supernatural source of sustenance and delight for "the city of God," which is Jerusalem, the dwelling place of the Most High.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Presence and Security: The core message is that God Himself is the source of joy and security for His people. The "city of God" is safe because God "tabernacles" or dwells there.
  • Abundant Provision: The "river" with its "streams" symbolizes an unending, refreshing supply of life and peace. This provision is not merely physical water but represents God's grace, Spirit, and blessings that bring spiritual gladness.
  • Spiritual Joy Amidst Turmoil: While the surrounding world may rage (as described in the earlier verses of Psalm 46), the city of God experiences inner joy and refreshment. This highlights the peace that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty and presence.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "river" is nahar, which can denote a large, flowing body of water. "Streams" comes from palagim, referring to channels or divisions of water. This suggests a controlled, purposeful distribution of blessing. The phrase "city of God" (Hebrew: 'Ir Elohim) emphasizes its divine ownership and special status. "Tabernacles of the Most High" (Hebrew: mishkanot 'Elyon) refers to God's dwelling place, underscoring His supreme authority and immanent presence among His people.

Related Scriptures

This symbolic river finds echoes throughout scripture. In Ezekiel 47, a life-giving river flows from the temple. Jesus Himself spoke of "rivers of living water" flowing from within believers, referring to the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the imagery culminates in the river of the water of life in the new Jerusalem in Revelation, signifying eternal joy and God's perpetual presence with His redeemed people. It speaks to the enduring promise that God sustains and gladdens those who dwell in Him.

Practical Application

For believers today, the "city of God" can be understood as the Church, the community of God's people, or even the individual heart where God dwells by His Spirit. The "river" represents the abundant grace, peace, and spiritual refreshment that God provides through His presence, especially through the Holy Spirit. In a world filled with anxieties and uncertainties, this verse assures us that we can find profound joy and stability by drawing near to God. It encourages us to trust in His unfailing provision and to rejoice in the spiritual gladness that only His presence can bring, making our hearts and communities places of His holy dwelling.

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Cross-References

  • Revelation 22:1 (22 votes)

    ¶ 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 (22 votes)

    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 (13 votes)

    ¶ 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 (13 votes)

    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 (10 votes)

    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 (10 votes)

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

  • Psalms 48:8 (7 votes)

    ¶ 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.