Psalms 66:3

KJV

Say unto God, How terrible [art thou in] thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Say {H559}{H8798)} unto God {H430}, How terrible {H3372}{H8737)} art thou in thy works {H4639}! through the greatness {H7230} of thy power {H5797} shall thine enemies {H341}{H8802)} submit {H3584}{H8762)} themselves unto thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Tell God, "How awesome are your deeds! At your great power, your enemies cringe.

Berean Standard Bible

Say to God, “How awesome are Your deeds! So great is Your power that Your enemies cower before You.

American Standard Version

Say unto God, How terrible are thy works! Through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 66:3 is a powerful and exclamatory declaration of God's awe-inspiring majesty and irresistible power, serving as a universal summons to all creation to acknowledge His magnificent deeds. It highlights the wonder of His creative and redemptive acts throughout history, emphasizing the absolute certainty of His ultimate triumph over all opposition, compelling even His adversaries to submit to His supreme authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 66 is a psalm of communal thanksgiving, opening with a universal call for "all the earth" to "make a joyful noise to God" and "sing forth the honor of his name" [Psalm 66:1-2](/psalms/66-1-2 "Psalm 66:1-2 - Universal Call to Worship"). The initial verses (1-7) focus on God's past works, particularly His miraculous interventions for His people, such as the parting of the Red Sea [Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21 - The Parting of the Red Sea") and His overarching control over creation and history. Psalm 66:3 serves as a direct, exclamatory address to God, acknowledging His fearsome greatness as revealed in these powerful works, setting the stage for the recounting of specific historical deliverances in the subsequent verses and transitioning into a more personal testimony of God's goodness in the latter half of the psalm [Psalm 66:8-20](/psalms/66-8-20 "Psalm 66:8-20 - Personal Thanksgiving and Deliverance").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the specific historical event prompting Psalm 66 is not explicitly stated, its themes resonate deeply with periods of national crisis and deliverance in Israel's history, perhaps reflecting a post-exilic context or a time of significant military victory. The psalm reflects a worldview where God is actively involved in the affairs of nations, demonstrating His power through both natural phenomena and historical events. The concept of "enemies" submitting to God was a common motif in ancient Near Eastern kingship, where victorious monarchs would receive homage from vanquished foes. However, in this psalm, it is applied to Yahweh, the divine King of Israel, emphasizing His unique and absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers. The psalm's universal scope ("all the earth") suggests a recognition of Yahweh's dominion extending beyond Israel, a theological development seen increasingly in prophetic literature that anticipates a global acknowledgment of God's reign.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 66 and the broader Psalter. It powerfully articulates **God's Awe-Inspiring Majesty**, using language that evokes a sense of profound reverence and astonishment at His deeds. It underscores **God's Irresistible Power**, asserting that His strength is unmatched and nothing can ultimately stand against Him, a theme echoed in [Psalm 2:4-6](/psalms/2-4-6 "Psalm 2:4-6 - God's Derision of His Enemies"). Furthermore, it highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Ultimate Submission**, proclaiming that all adversaries, regardless of their might, will inevitably be compelled to yield to God's supreme authority. This submission can manifest as voluntary reverence or forced subjugation, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - Every Knee Shall Bow"). The verse also implicitly touches upon the theme of **God's Redemptive History**, as His "works" encompass not only creation but also His acts of deliverance for His people, demonstrating His faithfulness across generations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Say (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** This primitive root is used with great latitude, meaning "to say," "to speak," "to declare," or "to command." In this context, it is an imperative, a direct command to the worshiper or to all humanity to speak forth, to articulate, and to acknowledge God's awesome nature. It implies a public declaration, a vocal response to the overwhelming reality of God's power and deeds.
* **Terrible (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** Derived from a primitive root meaning "to fear," this word, as used in the KJV, conveys a sense of "awe-inspiring," "dreadful" in a majestic way, or "reverential fear." It describes something so grand, powerful, and holy that it instills a profound sense of respect, astonishment, and even trembling. It emphasizes God's immense power, holiness, and the overwhelming nature of His presence and actions, which are not to be trifled with but are worthy of deep reverence.
* **Works (Hebrew, _maʻăseh'_):** This term refers to God's deeds, actions, or accomplishments. It encompasses both His creative acts (e.g., the formation of the cosmos) and His redemptive or judgmental interventions in human history (e.g., the Exodus, victories over enemies, judgments upon nations). The plural "works" indicates the vast array and consistent nature of God's powerful activity throughout time, demonstrating His character and sovereignty.
* **Submit themselves (Hebrew, _kâchash'_):** This primitive root literally means "to be untrue," "to lie," "to feign," or "to disown." In the context of submission to a superior power, it carries the nuance of feigned or forced obedience, a reluctant submission born out of necessity rather than willing allegiance. It suggests that even those who are hostile to God will be compelled to acknowledge His power, even if their hearts remain rebellious. This is a powerful statement about the absolute nature of God's dominion, where even insincere homage is a testament to His overwhelming might.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Say unto God, How terrible [art thou in] thy works!":** This opening clause is an exclamation of profound awe and wonder directed at God, serving as a command or exhortation. It urges the speaker and all who hear to declare openly the overwhelming and majestic nature of God's deeds. The "terrible" quality of His works refers to their capacity to inspire reverential fear and astonishment, demonstrating His immense power and holiness in creation and throughout history. It is a call to recognize and vocalize the profound impact of God's actions.
* **"through the greatness of thy power":** This phrase identifies the source and means by which God's "terrible works" are accomplished. It is not merely by His will, but by the sheer, unquantifiable "greatness" (Hebrew: _rôb_, meaning abundance or vastness) of His "power" (Hebrew: _ʻôz_, signifying strength, might, ability). This emphasizes the irresistible and limitless nature of divine omnipotence, which undergirds all of God's actions, making them effective and undeniable.
* **"shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.":** This climactic declaration reveals the inevitable outcome of God's great power. His "enemies"—those who oppose His will, His people, or His kingdom—will be compelled to "submit themselves" to Him. As discussed in "Key Word Analysis," this submission may be a forced, reluctant, or even feigned acknowledgment of His authority, rather than a willing act of worship. It highlights God's ultimate sovereignty and the futility of resistance against Him, underscoring that His dominion is absolute and inescapable.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 66:3 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message of divine majesty and power. The verse opens with an **exclamation** ("How terrible art thou in thy works!"), immediately conveying a sense of profound awe and wonder, inviting the reader to share in the psalmist's reverence for God. This is followed by a clear statement of **cause and effect**, directly linking God's "greatness of thy power" to the inevitable "submission" of His enemies, establishing a logical and theological consequence. The use of **hyperbole** in "greatness of thy power" emphasizes the immeasurable and overwhelming extent of God's might, suggesting it is beyond human comprehension or limitation. The concept of "enemies" being forced to "submit themselves" can be seen as a form of **personification**, where abstract opposition or hostile forces are given agency to bow down. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **proclamation**, a declarative statement of theological truth that serves to both praise God and instruct the worshiper about His unchallengeable nature and ultimate victory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 66:3 stands as a profound testament to God's absolute sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His will over all opposition. It underscores a fundamental biblical truth: God's power is not merely a theoretical concept but is actively demonstrated through His "works" in creation, providence, and redemption. This display of power demands a response, whether it be reverent awe from His people or forced submission from His adversaries. The verse foreshadows the eschatological reality where every knee will bow and every tongue confess God's supremacy, validating His righteous rule over all things. It reminds believers that despite present challenges or the apparent strength of opposing forces, God's ultimate victory is assured, providing a foundation for trust and hope in His unfailing dominion.

* [Philippians 2:10](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Will Bow")
* [Isaiah 45:23](/isaiah/45-23 "Isaiah 45:23 - God's Universal Sovereignty")
* [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return and Victory")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 66:3 calls us to cultivate a profound sense of awe and reverence for God. In a world that often seeks to diminish God or elevate human autonomy, this verse serves as a powerful corrective, reminding us of His unchallengeable power and ultimate authority. Recognizing the "terrible" (awe-inspiring) nature of God's works—from the intricate complexity of creation to His miraculous interventions in history and our personal lives—should inspire deep worship and unwavering trust. When faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles or formidable adversaries, this truth reassures us that God's power is supreme, and His purposes will ultimately prevail. It encourages us to rest in His sovereignty, knowing that no enemy, no circumstance, can ultimately stand against His mighty hand. This understanding fosters confidence in His protection and an unwavering commitment to worship Him, acknowledging that He is in control and will bring all things to submission under His divine will, whether willingly or by divine compulsion.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to acknowledge God's "terrible" (awe-inspiring) power more fully?**
* **How does the truth of God's enemies being forced to submit to Him impact your perspective on current global conflicts or personal struggles?**
* **What specific "works" of God in your own life or in history cause you to declare His greatness and power?**

### FAQ
**What does "terrible" mean in Psalm 66:3, and why is it used to describe God?**

Answer: In Psalm 66:3, the King James Version's use of "terrible" does not carry the modern negative connotation of something dreadful or bad. Instead, it reflects the original Hebrew word _yârêʼ_ (H3372), which means "awe-inspiring," "fear-inducing" in a reverential sense, or "majestic." It is used to describe God because His works—His acts of creation, judgment, and deliverance—are so overwhelmingly powerful, magnificent, and holy that they evoke a profound sense of wonder, respect, and even trembling in those who behold them. It emphasizes God's immense power and holiness, which are beyond human comprehension and inspire deep reverence.

**Does "thine enemies submit themselves unto thee" imply forced submission or willing worship?**

Answer: The Hebrew word _kâchash_ (H3584) used for "submit themselves" in Psalm 66:3 often implies a reluctant or feigned submission, a forced acknowledgment of power rather than willing allegiance. It suggests that God's power is so great that even His adversaries, who may harbor rebellion in their hearts, will be compelled to bow before His authority. This does not preclude the possibility of some enemies eventually turning to willing worship, but the primary emphasis here is on the undeniable and irresistible nature of God's dominion, which will ultimately bring all opposition to heel, whether by choice or by divine compulsion, as seen in the eschatological vision of [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee and Tongue").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 66:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "terrible" (awe-inspiring) works of God are supremely revealed in the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. Through Christ, God demonstrated the "greatness of His power" not only in creation but preeminently in conquering sin, death, and the grave, disarming principalities and powers [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers"). The promise that "thine enemies shall submit themselves unto thee" is perfectly realized in Christ's universal Lordship. While some submit willingly through faith and repentance, others will be compelled to acknowledge His sovereignty on the Day of Judgment, for "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Jesus' Universal Lordship"). Thus, Psalm 66:3 points forward to the cosmic triumph of the Lamb of God, who, by His powerful works of redemption and ultimate judgment, will ultimately reign supreme over all creation and all opposition, establishing His eternal kingdom [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of 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 18:44

As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me.

Psalms 65:5

[By] terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation; [who art] the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off [upon] the sea:

Psalms 81:15

The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever.

Psalms 47:2

For the LORD most high [is] terrible; [he is] a great King over all the earth.

Isaiah 2:19

And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.

Psalms 22:28

For the kingdom [is] the LORD'S: and he [is] the governor among the nations.

Psalms 22:29

All [they that be] fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him: and none can keep alive his own soul.