Habakkuk 3:1

What does Habakkuk 3:1 mean?

A plain-English look at Habakkuk 3:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Habakkuk 3:1 means

This verse presents the entire chapter as a "prayer" from Habakkuk the prophet, designated "set to Shigionoth." This musical notation indicates a highly emotional and possibly irregular, passionate song or ode, fitting the intense theological wrestling and ultimate triumph of faith expressed in the prayer. It frames the confession, petitions, and praise that follow not merely as spoken words but as a heartfelt song directed to God, intended for public worship.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, set to Shigionoth.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, set to Shigionoth.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, put to Shigionoth.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet concerning erring ones:

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

A PRAYER OF Habakkuk THE PROPHET FOR IGNORANCES.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

A Prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth.

Context

This verse serves as the superscription for the entire chapter, immediately establishing its nature as a prayer and song of Habakkuk. It sets the tone for the profound emotional and theological content that is about to unfold. Following the difficult questions Habakkuk posed to God and God's sobering answers in the previous chapters, this prayer is the prophet's Spirit-inspired response of faith and worship.

v.1This passage

v.2O Jehovah, I have heard the report of thee, and am afraid: O Jehovah, revive thy work in the midst of the years; In the midst of the years make it known; In wrath remember mercy.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Psalms 90:1

    Lord, thou hast been our dwelling-place In all generations.

  • Psalms 7:1

    O Jehovah my God, in thee do I take refuge: Save me from all them that pursue me, and deliver me,

  • Psalms 86:1

    Bow down thine ear, O Jehovah, and answer me; For I am poor and needy.

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