Psalm 114:5

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

Translations

Modern
Why was it, O sea, that you fled, O Jordan, that you turned back,
Traditional
What ailed thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? thou Jordan, that thou wast driven back?
Literal
What was it to you, O sea, that you fled, O Jordan, that you turned back,
Latin
Quid est tibi, mare, quod fugisti? et tu, Jordanis, quia conversus es retrorsum?

Original

Hebrew
English
Why was it, O sea, that you fled, O Jordan, that you 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.

Theme notes and profiles

Questions and Doubt

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

Earthquakes: At Sinai God: Power of the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Alluded To