Psalm 46:10

Context

Psalm 46 is a psalm of the sons of Korah that opens, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (46:1). Even amid chaos, when the earth is removed, the mountains shake, and the waters of the sea roar (vv. 2–3), the city where God dwells shall not be moved (vv. 4–5). Though the nations rage and kingdoms are moved, when God utters His voice the earth melts (v. 6). Verses 8–9 declare that God "maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire." Verse 10 follows immediately as God's own direct speech and continues, "I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."

"Be still" renders the causative (Hiphil) form of the Hebrew verb rapha, meaning "to let go," "to cease," or "to withdraw."

Interpretation

• As a command to the nations: This reading holds that, in context, the verse is an authoritative command addressed to the nations fighting against God: "Lay down your weapons and stop; know that I am God." Many modern commentators read it this way, and some English translations render it "Cease striving."
• As an exhortation to trust addressed to God's people: This reading takes the verse as a word to Israel in its fear, urging the people to stop their own striving and anxiety and to trust God. It is understood in the same vein as Exodus 14:14, "ye shall hold your peace."
• As an invitation to quiet meditation: This reading treats the verse as a basis for spiritual disciplines, calling believers to cease from busy activity and to rest quietly before God.

Debates and Issues

The verse is frequently cited in materials introducing contemplative prayer, silent prayer, and centering prayer. Some critics argue that this extends the verse beyond its original meaning, since the context concerns not inner quiet but God's sovereign victory, and certain conservative denominations that are wary of contemplative prayer itself criticize such use. Others, however, hold that the inner peace that comes from knowing God's sovereignty is also a legitimate application of the text.

In the Korean Church

Psalm 46 is known as the psalm on which Martin Luther based his hymn "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," and it is therefore often read on Reformation Sunday. Verse 10 is frequently used in sermons addressing anxiety and impatience and during times of silence at retreats.

Related Passages

• Psalm 46:1–3
• Psalm 46:8–11
• Exodus 14:13–14
• Isaiah 30:15
• Psalm 37:7