1 Chronicles 16:32

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that [is] therein.

Let the sea {H3220} roar {H7481}, and the fulness {H4393} thereof: let the fields {H7704} rejoice {H5970}, and all that is therein.

Let the sea roar, and everything in it; let the fields exult, and all that is in them.

Let the sea resound, and all that fills it; let the fields exult, and all that is in them.

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; Let the field exult, and all that is therein;

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 16:32 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 16:32: "Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that [is] therein."

Context

This verse is part of a magnificent psalm of thanksgiving and praise that King David delivered, or appointed to be sung, on the day the Ark of the Covenant was brought into Jerusalem and placed in the tent David had prepared for it. This was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, signifying God's presence among His people and the establishment of a spiritual center in the capital. The psalm, which spans 1 Chronicles 16:8-36, calls for a profound and universal celebration of God's character and mighty works, echoing themes found in other Psalms like Psalm 96 and Psalm 98.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Universal Praise: The primary message is an expansive call for all of creation—from the vastness of the sea to the fertile fields—to participate in praising God. This extends worship beyond humanity, illustrating that the natural world inherently acknowledges its Creator.
  • God's Sovereignty: The command for creation to "roar" and "rejoice" implicitly highlights God's absolute sovereignty over all things. His glory is so immense that even what we perceive as inanimate elements of nature are depicted as responsive and obedient to His will.
  • Joy and Celebration: The verse is imbued with a spirit of profound joy and exultation. It captures the exuberance appropriate for the occasion of the Ark's return, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people, and encourages a similar celebratory attitude in all worship.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "roar" for the sea is ra`am (רָעַם), which can describe a thunderous sound, a powerful shout, or an active demonstration of acknowledgment. It suggests a vibrant, dynamic form of praise from the ocean. "The fulness thereof" (Hebrew: melo'ah, מְלֹאוֹ) refers to everything that fills the sea—its creatures, its depths, its vastness. Similarly, for the fields, it encompasses all their produce and inhabitants. The word "rejoice" (Hebrew: `alaz, עָלַז) conveys a sense of exultation, jubilation, and triumph, emphasizing an active and expressive joy from the land.

Related Scriptures

This passage shares significant parallels with Psalm 96:11-12, where the sea and fields are also invited to make a joyful noise before the Lord. The idea of creation praising God is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, beautifully articulated in passages like Psalm 148:7-10, which lists various elements of creation in a grand chorus of praise.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless applications for believers today:

  • It reminds us that worship is not confined to human voices or religious buildings; it is an inherent response of all creation to its Maker. We are called to join this universal chorus.
  • It encourages us to look at the natural world—the oceans, forests, mountains, and fields—as a continuous testament to God's glory and power. Every sunrise, every wave, every blooming flower silently (or powerfully) declares His majesty.
  • It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of joy and exuberance in our own worship and gratitude towards God, reflecting the celebratory tone of this ancient psalm.
  • Understanding that the earth and its fullness belong to the Lord should inspire us towards responsible stewardship of creation, recognizing its inherent value and its role in glorifying God.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 93:4 (2 votes)

    The LORD on high [is] mightier than the noise of many waters, [yea, than] the mighty waves of the sea.

  • Isaiah 44:23 (2 votes)

    Sing, O ye heavens; for the LORD hath done [it]: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified himself in Israel.

  • Psalms 98:7 (2 votes)

    Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

  • Psalms 98:8 (2 votes)

    Let the floods clap [their] hands: let the hills be joyful together

  • Psalms 148:9 (2 votes)

    Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars:

  • Psalms 148:10 (2 votes)

    Beasts, and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowl: