Thou, even thou, art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?

PSALMS 76:7KJV
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Psalms 76:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 76:7 mean?

Psalms 76:7 says that God is so awe-inspiring and powerful that people are filled with fear and respect before Him, and no one can stand before Him when He is angry. The verse highlights the overwhelming authority of God and the helplessness of anyone who faces His judgment.

The psalm is written by Asaph, speaking to God about His unmatched might. The setting is one of reverence, likely after God has shown His power in defending His people. The verse emphasizes that when God’s anger is stirred, no human or force can withstand His presence or challenge His will.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 76:7

  • "feared" (יָרֵא, yare): This word means to be afraid, but also to deeply respect or revere. In this verse, it points to a fear that comes from recognizing God’s greatness and authority, not just terror.
  • "stand" (עָמַד, amad): This means to remain standing or endure. The verse asks who could possibly remain upright or endure in God’s presence when He is angry, stressing human frailty.
  • "sight" (פָּנִים, panim): This word literally means "face" or "presence." The verse is about being directly before God, not just in a general sense, but in His immediate presence.
  • "angry" (אַף, aph): This word literally means "nose" or "nostrils," but is used to describe anger, often with the image of flaring nostrils. It gives a vivid picture of God’s intense displeasure.

Why Psalms 76:7 matters

  • Psalms 76:7 clears up the idea that God’s anger is not like human anger; it is connected to His justice and holiness, making it something truly awesome and fearsome.
  • The verse emphasizes that no one is exempt from God’s authority—everyone is accountable before Him, especially when He judges wrongdoing.
  • In the context of the psalm, this verse helps explain why God’s people should honor and respect Him, especially after witnessing His power to defend and judge.

Where else these words appear

“when” Hebrew H227 · used in 22 verses

  • Genesis 12:6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.
  • 2 Samuel 15:34 But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father's servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant: then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.
  • Ecclesiastes 2:15 Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I said in my heart, that this also is vanity.