TRV
Translation
King James Version
Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
Complete Jewish Bible
You rained down showers in plenty, God; when your heritage was weary, you restored it.
American Standard Version
Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, Thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
World English Bible Messianic
You, God, sent a plentiful rain. You confirmed your inheritance, when it was weary.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou, O God, sendest a gracious raine vpon thine inheritance, and thou didest refresh it when it was wearie.
Young's Literal Translation
A shower of free-will gifts thou shakest out, O God. Thine inheritance, when it hath been weary, Thou hast established it.
See also
In the KJVVerse 14,910 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Psalms 68 verses 7–14
7 ¶ O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah:
8 The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
9 Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
10 Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor.
11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.
12 Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil.
13 Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.
14 When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon.
The psalmist here, having occasion to give God thanks for the great things he had done for him and his people of late, takes occasion thence to praise him for what he had done for their fathers in the days of old. Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies and revive our grateful sense of them. Let it never be forgotten,
I. That God himself was the guide of Israel through the wilderness; when he had brought them out of their chains he did not leave them in the dry land, but he himself went before them in a march through the wilderness, Psa 68:7. It was not a journey, but a march, for they went as soldiers, as an army with banners. The Egyptians promised themselves that the wilderness had shut them in, but they were deceived; God's Israel, having him for their leader, marched through the wilderness and were not lost in it. Note, If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it and bring them out of it. Sol 8:5.
II. That he manifested his glorious presence with them at Mount Sinai, Psa 68:8. Never did any people see the glory of God, nor hear his voice, as Israel did, Deu 4:32, Deu 4:33. Never had any people such an excellent law given them, so expounded, so enforced. Then the earth shook, and the neighbouring countries, it is likely, felt the shock; terrible thunders there were, accompanied no doubt with thunder-showers, in which the heavens seemed to drop; while the divine doctrine dropped as the rain, Deu 32:2. Sinai itself, that vast mountain, that long ridge of mountains, was moved at the presence of God; see Jdg 5:4, Jdg 5:5; Deu 33:2; Hab 3:3. This terrible appearance of the Divine Majesty, as it would possess them with a fear and dread of him, so it would encourage their faith in him and dependence upon him. Whatever mountains of difficulty lay in the way of their happy settlement, he that could move Sinai itself could remove them, could get over them.
III. That he provided very comfortably for them both in the wilderness and in Canaan (Psa 68:9, Psa 68:10): Thou didst send a plentiful rain and hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor. This may refer, 1. To the victualling of their camp with manna in the wilderness, which was rained upon them, as were also the quails (Psa 78:24, Psa 78:27), and it might be fitly called a rain of liberality or munificence, for it was a memorable instance of the divine bounty. This confirmed the camp of Israel (here called God's inheritance, because he had chosen them to be a peculiar treasure to himself) when it was weary and ready to perish: this confirmed their faith, and was a standing proof of God's power and goodness. Even in the wilderness God found a comfortable dwelling for Israel, which was his congregation. Or, 2. To the seasonable supplies granted them in Canaan, that land flowing with mild and honey, which is said to drink water of the rain of heaven, Deu 11:11. When sometimes that fruitful land was ready to be turned into barrenness, for the iniquity of those that dwelt therein, God, in judgment, remembered mercy, and sent them a plentiful rain, which refreshed it again, so that the congregation of Israel dwelt therein, and there was provision enough, even to satisfy their poor with bread. This looks further to the spiritual provision made for God's Israel; the Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentiful rain with which God confirms his inheritance, and from which their fruit is found, Isa 45:8. Christ himself is this rain, Psa 72:6. He shall come as showers that water the earth.
IV. That he often gave them victory over their enemies; armies, and kings of armies, appeared against them, from their first coming into Canaan, and all along in the times of the judges, till David's days, but, first or last, they gained their point against them, Psa 68:11, Psa 68:12, Psa 68:14. Observe here, 1. That God was their commander-in-chief: The Lord gave the word, as general of their armies. He raised up judges for them, gave them their commissions and instructions, and assured them of success. God spoke in his holiness, and then Gilead is mine. 2. That they had prophets, as God's messengers, to make known his mind to them. God gave them his word (the word of the Lord came unto them) and then great was the company of the preachers - prophets and prophetesses, for the word is feminine. When God has messages to send he will not want messengers. Or perhaps it may allude to the women's joining in the triumph when the victory was obtained, as was usual (Exo 15:20, Sa1 18:7), in which they took notice of the word of God, triumphing in that as much as in his works. 3. That their enemies were defeated, and put to confusion: Kings of armies did flee, did flee with the greatest terror and precipitation imaginable, did not fight and flee, but flee and flee, retired without striking a stroke; they fled apace, fled and never rallied again. 4. That they were enriched with the plunder of the field: She that tarried at home divided the spoil. Not only the men, the soldiers that abode by the stuff, who were, by a statute of distributions, to share the prey (Sa1 30:24), but even the women that tarried at home had a share, which intimates the abundance of spoil that should be taken. 5. That these great things which God did for them were sanctified to them and contributed to their reformation (Psa 68:14): When the Almighty scattered kings for her (for the church) she was white as snow in Salmon, purified and refined by the mercies of God; when the host went forth against the enemy they kept themselves from every wicked thing, and so the host returned victorious, and Israel by the victory were confirmed in their purity and piety. This account of Israel's victories is applicable to the victories obtained by the exalted Redeemer for those that are his, over death and hell. By the resurrection of Christ our spiritual enemies were made to flee, their power was broken, and they were for ever disabled to hurt any of God's people. This victory was first notified by the women (the she-publishers) to the disciples (Mat 28:7) and by them it was preached to all the world, while believers that tarry at home, that did not themselves contribute any thing towards it, enjoy the benefit of it, and divide the spoil.
V. That from a low and despised condition they had been advanced to splendour and prosperity. When they were bond-slaves in Egypt, and afterwards when they were oppressed sometimes by one potent neighbour and sometimes by another, they did, as it were, lie among the pots or rubbish, as despised broken vessels, or as vessels in which there was no pleasure - they were black, and dirty, and discoloured. But God, at length, delivered them from the pots (Psa 81:6), and in David's time they were in a fair way to be one of the most prosperous kingdoms in the world, amiable in the eyes of all about them, like the wings of a dove covered with silver, Psa 68:13. "And so," says Dr. Hammond, "under Christ's kingdom, the heathen idolaters that were brought to the basest and most despicable condition of any creatures, worshipping wood and stone, and given up to the vilest lusts, should from that detestable condition be advanced to the service of Christ, and the practice of all Christian virtues, the greatest inward beauties in the world." It may be applied also to the deliverance of the church out of a suffering state and the comforts of particular believers after their despondencies.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 7–14. Public domain.
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Clement of AlexandriaAD 215
The Stromata Book 5
Again, Aeschylus the tragedian, setting forth the power of God, does not shrink from calling him the Highest, in these words:Place God apart from mortals; and think not
That he is, like yourself, corporeal.
You know him not. Now he appears as fire,
Dread force; as water now; and now as gloom;
And in the beasts is dimly shadowed forth,
In wind, and cloud, in lightning, thunder, rain;
And minister to him the seas and rocks,
Each fountain and the water’s floods and streams.
The mountains tremble, and the earth, the vast
Abyss of sea, and towering height of hills,
When on them looks the Sovereign’s awful eye:
Almighty is the glory of the Most High God.
Does he not seem to you to paraphrase that text, “At the presence of the Lord the earth trembles”?
Ambrose of MilanAD 397
On the Holy Spirit 1.18
Damasus cleansed not, Peter cleansed not, Ambrose cleansed not, Gregory cleansed not; for ours is the ministry, but the sacraments are yours. For human power cannot confer what is divine, but it is, O Lord, your gift and that of the Father, as you have spoken by the prophets, saying, “I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh, and their sons and their daughters shall prophesy.” This is that typical dew from heaven, this is that gracious rain, as we read: “A gracious rain, dividing for his inheritance.” For the Holy Spirit is not subject to any foreign power or law but is the arbiter of his own freedom, dividing all things according to the decision of his own will, to each, as we read, individually as he wills.
JeromeAD 420
PSALMS 7
“O God, when you went forth at the head of your people.” This accords with history, when God preceded his people as they marched out of Egypt. “When you marched through the wilderness.” God did not delay in the desert but passed through it. “The earth quaked; it rained from heaven at the presence of the God of Sinai.” “It rained from heaven”: that is, it rained manna. Sinai signifies temptation. God dwells, therefore, in those who are tempted and overcome temptation; in those who seek sensual gratification, however, he does not dwell. “A bountiful rain you showered down, O God, on your inheritance.” This refers to the law that was given through Moses. “You restored the land when it languished.” The law languished because no one was able to fulfill it except the Lord, who said, “I have not come to destroy the law but to fulfill.” HOMILIES ON THE.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 68
"When You went by in the desert, the earth was moved" [Psalm 68:8]. A desert were the nations, which knew not God: a desert they were, where by God Himself no law had been given, where no Prophet had dwelled, and foretold the Lord to come. "When," then, "You went by in the desert," when You were preached in the nations; "the earth was moved," to the faith earthly men were stirred up. But whence was it moved? "For the heavens dropped from the face of God." Perchance here some one calls to mind that time, when in the desert God was going over before His people, before the sons of Israel, by day in the pillar of cloud, by night in the brightness of fire; [Exodus 13:21] and determines that thus it is that "the heavens dropped from the face of God," for manna He rained upon His people: [Exodus 16:15] that the same thing also is that which follows, "Mount Sina from the face of the God of Israel," "with voluntary rain severing God to Your inheritance" [Psalm 68:9], namely, the God that on Mount Sina spoke to Moses, when He gave the Law, so that the manna is the voluntary rain, which God severed for His inheritance, that is, for His people; because them alone He so fed, not the other nations also: so that what next he says, "and it was weakened," is understood of the inheritance being itself weakened; for they murmuring, fastidiously loathed the manna, longing for victuals of flesh, and those things on which they had been accustomed to live in Egypt. [Numbers 11:5-6] ... Lastly, all those men in the desert were stricken down, nor were any of them except two found worthy to go into the land of promise. [Numbers 14:23-24] Although even if in the sons of them that inheritance be said to have been perfected, we ought more readily to hold to a spiritual sense. For all those things in a figure did happen to them; [1 Corinthians 10:11] until the day should break, and the shadows should be removed. [Song of Songs 2:17]
Augustine of HippoAD 430
ON THE TRINITY 4:1.2
First we had to be persuaded how much God loved us, in case out of sheer despair we lacked the courage to reach up to him. Also we had to be shown what sort of people we are that he loves, in case we should take pride in our own worth and so bounce even further away from him and sink ever more under our own strength. So he dealt with us in such a way that we could progress rather in his strength; he arranged it so that the power of love should be brought to perfection in the weakness of humility. This is the meaning of the psalm where it says, "O God, you are setting apart a voluntary rain for your inheritance, and it has been weakened; but you have perfected it." What he means by voluntary rain is nothing other than grace, which is not paid out as earned but given gratis; that is why it is called grace. He was not obliged to give it because we deserved it; he gave it voluntarily because he wished to. Knowing this, we will put no trust in ourselves, and that is what to be weakened means. He however perfects us—as he said to the apostle Paul, "my grace is enough for you; strength is made perfect in weakness." So we needed to be persuaded how much God loves us, and what sort of people he loves; how much case we despaired, what sort in case we grew proud.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
COMMENTARY ON THE PSALMS 68:6
“When you ventured forth in the midst of your people, O God, when you passed through the wilderness, earth shook and the heavens sent down drops.” Symmachus rendered it thus, “O God, when you went before your people, moving through the uninhabited land, earth shook and heaven sent down drops.” On the point of passing through that barren and uninhabited land, which had not yet felt the light’s ray, you disturbed the earth and shook it, and from heaven you sent down the shower of grace. Now, in the one case, this happened at the crucifixion. At that time the earth shook and the rocks broke open, and all the earth was disturbed on gaining the impression that the Creator of all was hung up on the cross; in the other case, after the return to heaven. At that time the grace of the Spirit came on the apostles, like drops of dew. Then, to teach Jews more clearly who was doing all this, he added, “at the presence of the God of Sinai, at the presence of the God of Israel.” The one who appeared to our forebears on Mount Sinai, he is saying, is the one who also shook the earth at the time of the passion to refute our folly and who made the gift of the Spirit.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Psalms 68:9 profoundly illustrates God's compassionate and powerful intervention on behalf of His people, Israel. It portrays a divine act of generous and abundant provision, symbolized by "plentiful rain," which serves to refresh, strengthen, and reaffirm His covenant relationship with His chosen "inheritance" precisely when they are at their most vulnerable and weary. This verse encapsulates God's unwavering faithfulness, His tender care, and His consistent commitment to the sustenance and establishment of those who belong to Him, even in times of profound hardship and spiritual fatigue.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 68:9 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. Symbolism is paramount, with "plentiful rain" serving as a rich and multi-layered symbol not just for literal water but for all forms of divine provision, blessing, and spiritual refreshing. It represents God's life-giving presence and sustenance in a barren or challenging environment, signifying abundance and renewal. The phrase "thine inheritance" functions as a powerful metaphor for Israel, likening the nation to a cherished possession or a divinely allotted portion, emphasizing God's intimate, proprietary, and deeply committed relationship with His people. Furthermore, the verse subtly uses anthropomorphism by implying God's empathy for His people's "weariness," portraying Him as a compassionate caregiver who responds to their exhaustion with timely and generous aid. The structure itself, moving from God's sovereign action to its transformative effect on His people's vulnerable state, creates a compelling sense of divine cause and responsive grace.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 68:9 offers a profound theological statement about God's character as a compassionate, faithful, and sovereign provider. It teaches that God is intimately aware of the struggles and weariness of His people and actively intervenes to sustain, refresh, and confirm them in their identity and purpose. This divine pattern of provision in moments of weakness and vulnerability is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises. The "plentiful rain" is a tangible expression of His unmerited grace, not merely meeting a need but generously overflowing to establish and strengthen. This principle extends beyond ancient Israel, revealing a God who continues to pour out His Spirit and blessings upon His new covenant people, the Church, in their moments of profound need, confirming their status as His beloved inheritance.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 68:9 provides immense encouragement and spiritual nourishment for believers navigating the complexities and challenges of life. It assures us that our God is not distant, indifferent, or unaware of our struggles, but actively and intimately involved in our welfare. When we feel spiritually dry, emotionally exhausted, physically depleted, or overwhelmed by circumstances, this verse reminds us that God sees our weariness and is ready to send His "plentiful rain"—whether it manifests as renewed spiritual strength, unexpected resources, clear guidance, profound peace, or the comforting and empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. Just as He confirmed Israel's identity and security through His timely provision, so too does He confirm our standing as His beloved children, His cherished inheritance, through His ongoing, gracious care. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep trust in His perfect timing and His generous nature, knowing that His faithfulness is constant and His desire is to refresh, restore, and establish us, especially when we are most vulnerable. We are invited to rest in His sovereign provision, allowing His divine "rain" to revive our souls and strengthen our walk of faith.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "plentiful rain" symbolize beyond literal water in this verse?
Answer: While literally referring to life-sustaining rain in an arid land, "plentiful rain" in Psalms 68:9 serves as a rich and multifaceted symbol for God's abundant, generous, and comprehensive provision. It encompasses all forms of divine blessing—physical sustenance, spiritual refreshing, unexpected resources, clear guidance, profound comfort, and renewal of strength. It signifies God's overflowing goodness, freely given to His people when they are in need, confirming His covenant and sustaining their very existence. This divine generosity is a hallmark of His character, always providing what is necessary for His people's well-being and establishment.
Why is Israel referred to as "thine inheritance" in this context?
Answer: The term "thine inheritance" (Hebrew: nachălâh) underscores Israel's unique and special status as God's chosen possession. It signifies that God "acquired" them through His mighty redemptive acts, such as the Exodus from Egypt, and entered into a covenant relationship with them at Mount Sinai. This term highlights the intimate, proprietary, and deeply cherished relationship God has with His people, viewing them as His treasured possession, a people He cares for deeply and is committed to establishing, protecting, and sustaining. This concept is foundational to understanding God's relationship with Israel throughout the Old Testament, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:9.
How does this verse apply to believers in the New Testament era?
Answer: Psalms 68:9 applies powerfully and redemptively to New Testament believers, as the Church is now considered God's "inheritance" in Christ (Ephesians 1:11). Just as God provided for ancient Israel in their weariness, He continues to sustain and refresh His people today through the new covenant. The "plentiful rain" can be understood as the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the life-giving and nourishing Word of God, or any divine intervention that brings spiritual renewal, comfort, and strength to weary souls. It assures us that God sees our struggles, responds with timely and generous provision, and remains faithful to confirm our identity and purpose in Him, as promised in Isaiah 40:29.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 68:9, with its vivid depiction of God's generous provision for His weary inheritance, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the divine "plentiful rain" poured out upon a spiritually parched and weary humanity, offering true and eternal refreshment. Just as the rain confirmed Israel's place as God's chosen people, Christ's perfect sacrifice on the cross and His glorious resurrection definitively confirm believers as God's new covenant "inheritance," purchased by His precious blood and sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:11). In Christ, we find true rest for our souls, as He graciously invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for profound spiritual refreshment (Matthew 11:28-30). The "plentiful rain" foreshadows the abundant outpouring of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ promised to send, providing living water that springs up to eternal life within those who believe (John 7:37-39). Through His boundless fullness, we receive grace upon grace (John 1:16), establishing us firmly in God's family and empowering us to endure, even when the journey of faith brings profound weariness. Christ is the ultimate confirmation of God's unwavering commitment to His people, providing all that is needed for life and godliness through His finished work.