Psalms 114:3 (KJV)

What does Psalms 114:3 mean?

Psalms 114:3 describes how the sea and the Jordan River responded dramatically when God led the Israelites out of Egypt: the sea “fled” and the Jordan “was driven back.” This verse poetically recalls the parting of the Red Sea and the stopping of the Jordan’s flow, showing nature itself reacting to God’s presence and power.

The psalmist is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of their history when God miraculously made a way for them during the Exodus and their entry into the Promised Land. The verse uses vivid imagery to highlight how even mighty natural barriers could not stand in God’s way, emphasizing His authority over creation.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 114:3

• sea (יָם, yam): This word refers to the large body of water, here pointing to the Red Sea, which played a central role in the Exodus story.
• fled (נוּס, nus): This verb means to run away or escape quickly, emphasizing how the sea parted as if it were fleeing from God’s presence.
• Jordan (יַרְדֵּן, yarden): This is the main river of Israel, which stopped flowing when the Israelites crossed into Canaan, marking another miraculous event.
• driven (סוּב, suv): This word often means to turn or go around, but here it describes the Jordan’s waters turning back or retreating, adding to the sense of nature obeying God’s command.
• back (אָחוֹר, achor): This word means “backward” or “behind,” clarifying the direction in which the Jordan’s waters moved—away from their normal course.

Why Psalms 114:3 matters

• Psalms 114:3 connects the Exodus and the entry into Canaan, showing that God’s power was not just a one-time event but continued with His people.
• The verse uses poetic language to personify the sea and the river, helping readers picture the awe-inspiring impact of God’s actions.
• By recalling these miracles, the psalm encourages trust in God’s ability to overcome any obstacle, reinforcing the theme of God’s ongoing care for His people.