Psalm 24:2

For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.

Study Bible

For He has founded it upon the seas
For He
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "כִּי" (ki), which often introduces a reason or explanation. Here, it underscores that God is the ultimate authority and creator. The use of "He" points directly to God, affirming His role as the divine architect of the world. This reflects the conservative Christian belief in God's supreme power and intentionality in creation.

has founded
The Hebrew root for "founded" is "יָסַד" (yasad), which means to establish or lay a foundation. This word conveys the idea of stability and intentionality. In the ancient Near Eastern context, founding something upon the seas would have been seen as a demonstration of immense power, as the sea was often associated with chaos. This phrase reassures believers of God's control over all creation, including the chaotic and unpredictable elements of the world.

it
The pronoun "it" refers to the earth, as mentioned in the previous verse. This highlights the object of God's creative act. The earth is not a random occurrence but a deliberate creation by God. This aligns with the conservative Christian view that the earth is purposefully designed and maintained by God.

upon the seas
The phrase "upon the seas" uses the Hebrew word "עַל" (al), meaning "upon" or "over," and "יַמִּים" (yamim), meaning "seas." In ancient Hebrew cosmology, the seas were often seen as chaotic and untamed. By stating that God founded the earth upon the seas, the psalmist is illustrating God's mastery over chaos and His ability to bring order and stability. This imagery would have resonated deeply with the original audience, who viewed the sea as a symbol of uncertainty and danger. For conservative Christians, this serves as a reminder of God's power to bring order to the chaos in our lives.

and established it upon the waters
and established
The Hebrew word for "established" is "כוּן" (kun), which means to make firm or secure. This word reinforces the idea of God's intentional and powerful act of creation. It suggests not only the initial act of creation but also the ongoing sustenance and maintenance of the earth. This reflects the belief that God is not a distant creator but actively involved in His creation.

it
Again, "it" refers to the earth, emphasizing the focus of God's creative and sustaining work. The repetition of this pronoun in the verse highlights the earth's significance in God's plan and His ongoing care for it.

upon the waters
The phrase "upon the waters" uses the Hebrew word "מַיִם" (mayim), meaning "waters." Similar to "upon the seas," this phrase underscores God's control over the primordial waters, which were often seen as chaotic and threatening. In the biblical narrative, water is a powerful symbol, representing both life and chaos. By establishing the earth upon the waters, God demonstrates His authority over all elements of creation. For conservative Christians, this serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring order and purpose to the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (He)
The Creator and Sustainer of the earth, who has the power and authority to establish the world.

2. The Earth
The physical world that God has created and established.

3. The Seas and Waters
Symbolic of chaos and disorder in ancient Near Eastern thought, yet under God's control and order.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
Recognize that God is the ultimate authority over all creation, including the chaotic elements symbolized by the seas.

Order from Chaos
Understand that God brings order out of chaos, both in the natural world and in our personal lives.

Trust in God's Control
Trust that God has established the world with purpose and precision, and He is in control of all circumstances.

Creation Reflects God's Power
Reflect on how the natural world reveals God's power and majesty, leading us to worship Him.

Foundation of Faith
Build your faith on the firm foundation of God's unchanging nature and His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over creation impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can you see God bringing order out of chaos in your own life?

3. How does the imagery of God founding the earth upon the seas enhance your understanding of His power?

4. What other biblical accounts or passages illustrate God's control over the natural world?

5. How can you apply the truth of God's established order to a specific situation you are facing today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:9-10
This passage describes God gathering the waters to reveal dry land, showing His authority over creation.

Job 38:8-11
God questions Job about His control over the sea, emphasizing His sovereignty.

Psalm 104:5-9
This psalm praises God for setting the earth on its foundations and controlling the waters.

Proverbs 8:27-29
Wisdom speaks of God setting boundaries for the sea, highlighting His order and design.

Revelation 21:1
The new creation where the sea is no more, symbolizing the ultimate peace and order God will establish.