Psalm 114:3

A Psalm of Exodus · Psalm 114:1–8
Read Psalm 114

Translations

Modern
The sea observed and fled; the Jordan turned back;
Traditional
The sea saw it, and fled: Jordan was driven back.
Literal
The sea saw Him and fled; the Jordan turned to the back.
Latin
Mare vidit, et fugit; Jordanis conversus est retrorsum.

Original

Hebrew
English
The sea observed and fled; the Jordan turned back;

Notes

This song celebrates the Lord's power in nature. It remembers Israel's start as a nation during the exodus (Psalm 114:1–2) and their entry into the promised land (114:3–6). It encourages respect for the God of Jacob (Psalm 114:7–8).

These psalms are called the Egyptian Hallel. Hallel means “praise.” Jewish people use these psalms during Passover, which began when God brought Israel out of Egypt in the exodus. The people recite Psalms 113–114 before the Passover meal, and Psalms 115–118 are recited afterward.

The word Hallelujah! is repeated throughout this group of psalms.

Places

Jordan: A river and region, significant in Israel's history

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Exodus, the Hallel Hallelujah Music Psalms, Book of

Topics

God: Power of Jordan: The Waters of, Miraculously Separated for the Passage of the Israelites the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Alluded To