Psalms 46:1
What does Psalms 46:1 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 46:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 46:1 means
This verse opens with a foundational declaration: God serves as our ultimate sanctuary and source of power. In times of distress, He is not a distant observer but an immediately accessible aid, always available to provide comfort and deliverance. The imagery of "refuge" implies a safe haven from danger, while "strength" points to an inner fortification that enables endurance. This isn't merely a theoretical comfort but a practical, ever-present reality for those who trust in Him, offering a firm anchor in the storms of life.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
KJV
King James Version · 1611God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949God is our harbour and our strength, a very present help in trouble.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862To the Overseer. --By sons of Korah. `For the Virgins.' --A song. God <FI>is<Fi> to us a refuge and strength, A help in adversities found most surely.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Unto the end, for the sons of Core.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890God is our refuge and strength, a help in distresses, very readily found.
Context
This first verse establishes the central theme of the entire psalm: God's unwavering presence and protective nature for His people. It immediately sets a tone of confidence and security, which the subsequent verses will elaborate upon and illustrate. This opening statement is the bedrock upon which the psalm's triumphant declaration of fearlessness in the face of chaos is built, introducing the divine defender.
v.1This passage
v.2Therefore will we not fear, though the earth do change, And though the mountains be shaken into the heart of the seas;
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 18:10
The name of Jehovah is a strong tower; The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
- Psalms 62:7
With God is my salvation and my glory: The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
- Psalms 46:7
Jehovah of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. [Selah
- Proverbs 14:26
In the fear of Jehovah is strong confidence; And his children shall have a place of refuge.
- Psalms 84:1
How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Jehovah of hosts!
- Luke 13:34
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killeth the prophets, and stoneth them that are sent unto her! how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her own brood under her wings, and ye would not!
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