Old Testament

Psalms 114:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist is addressing the sea and the Jordan River, questioning why they seemed to retreat or flee.

Author
David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written
Around 1000-500 BC
Genre
Poetry and worship
Original Audience
Worshipers of Israel
CBTClear Bible Translation

What ailed you, O sea, that you fled? You, Jordan, that you were driven back?

KJVKing James Version

What ailed thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? thou Jordan, that thou wast driven back?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is addressing the sea and the Jordan River, questioning why they seemed to retreat or flee. This imagery reflects the miraculous events during the Exodus when the Israelites crossed the Red Sea and the Jordan River. The sea parted to allow the Israelites to escape from Egypt, and the Jordan River stopped flowing to let them enter the Promised Land. The rhetorical questions emphasize the power of God over nature and His ability to intervene in human history. The psalmist marvels at these events, highlighting God's sovereignty and the awe-inspiring moments of deliverance experienced by His people. This verse serves as a reminder of God's might and the extraordinary ways He acts on behalf of those who trust in Him, encouraging believers to reflect on their own experiences of divine intervention.

How to apply Psalms 114:5 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize and reflect on the moments in our lives when we have experienced God's intervention. Just as the Israelites witnessed the sea and river responding to God's command, we too can trust that God is active in our lives, guiding and protecting us through challenges. Remembering these moments can strengthen our faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 114:5 mean?

Psalms 114:5 questions why the sea and the Jordan River seemed to flee, referencing the miraculous events during the Exodus when God parted the waters for the Israelites. It highlights God's power over nature and His ability to intervene in human history.

What is the significance of the sea and Jordan in Psalms 114:5?

In Psalms 114:5, the sea and the Jordan symbolize the barriers the Israelites faced during their journey to freedom and the Promised Land. Their retreat represents God's miraculous intervention, showcasing His sovereignty and protection over His people.

How does Psalms 114:5 relate to God's power?

Psalms 114:5 illustrates God's supreme authority by depicting how natural elements like the sea and the Jordan River respond to His commands. It serves as a reminder of His ability to control nature and provide for His people.

What themes are present in Psalms 114:5?

Key themes in Psalms 114:5 include divine intervention, God's power over nature, miracles, and the historical reflection on the Israelites' deliverance. It encourages believers to recognize God's active role in their lives.

The Book of Psalms
Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

Premium

Unlock the full Psalms summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.