Psalms 78:13 (KJV)

What does Psalms 78:13 mean?

Psalms 78:13 recalls how God parted the sea, allowing the Israelites to walk through safely, while the waters stood up like a wall on either side. This verse highlights a dramatic moment when God intervened powerfully to rescue His people during their escape from Egypt.

In this psalm, the writer is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of their history and God’s mighty acts. The verse points back to the crossing of the Red Sea, emphasizing God’s control over nature and His ability to save. The focus is on remembering and passing down the story of God’s deliverance to future generations.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 78:13

• "Divided" (בָּקַע, baqa‘): This word means to split or break open. It stresses the forceful and miraculous nature of the sea being parted, not just gently moved aside.
• "Sea" (יָם, yam): Refers specifically to the body of water the Israelites crossed, most often understood as the Red Sea in this context.
• "Heap" (נֵד, ned): This word means a pile or mound. The verse pictures the waters as standing up in a heap, which would have been an awe-inspiring and unnatural sight, showing the extraordinary nature of the event.

Why Psalms 78:13 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that the crossing was a natural event; the language used points to a miraculous and intentional act by God.
• It emphasizes God’s power over creation, reminding readers that the same God who controls the sea is involved in their history.
• In the wider context of Psalm 78, this verse serves as a call to remember and teach about God’s faithfulness and mighty works, so that future generations do not forget.