Psalm 60:2

You have shaken the land and torn it open. Heal its fractures, for it is quaking.

Study Bible

You have shaken the land
This phrase begins with an acknowledgment of God's sovereign power over creation. The Hebrew root for "shaken" is "רָעַשׁ" (ra'ash), which conveys a sense of trembling or quaking. Historically, earthquakes were seen as manifestations of divine displeasure or intervention. In the context of ancient Israel, such natural phenomena were often interpreted as signs of God's judgment or a call to repentance. The land, representing the nation and its stability, is depicted as being unsettled, reflecting a period of turmoil or divine correction. This serves as a reminder of the fragility of human constructs when faced with the omnipotence of God.

and torn it open
The imagery of tearing open suggests a violent disruption, akin to the rending of garments in mourning or distress. The Hebrew word "פָּרַץ" (parats) implies a breach or breaking forth. This could symbolize the exposure of the nation's vulnerabilities or sins, laid bare before God. In a historical context, this might refer to military defeats or internal strife that left the nation exposed to its enemies. Spiritually, it calls believers to introspection, recognizing areas in their lives that need healing and restoration by God's grace.

Heal its fractures
Here, the plea for healing indicates a desire for restoration and wholeness. The Hebrew root "רָפָא" (rapha) is often used in the context of physical and spiritual healing. This reflects a deep trust in God's ability to mend what is broken. Historically, this could relate to the aftermath of conflict or disaster, where the community seeks divine intervention to restore peace and stability. For the believer, it is a call to seek God's healing in personal and communal life, trusting in His power to restore what has been damaged by sin or adversity.

for it is quaking
The repetition of the theme of instability underscores the urgency of the situation. The Hebrew "מוֹט" (mot) suggests a tottering or wavering, emphasizing the precariousness of the current state. This serves as a vivid reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's statutes. In a broader scriptural context, it echoes the biblical theme that true security and peace are found only in alignment with God's will. For the faithful, it is an encouragement to remain steadfast in faith, even amidst life's uncertainties, trusting that God is the ultimate source of stability and strength.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of Psalm 60, David was the second king of Israel, known for his military conquests and deep relationship with God. This psalm is attributed to him during a time of national distress.

2. Israel
The nation experiencing turmoil and seeking God's intervention. The psalm reflects a period of military and political instability.

3. Edom
A neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel. The historical context of Psalm 60 involves battles against Edom and other adversaries.

4. Joab
David's military commander, who played a significant role in the battles against Edom and other enemies.

5. Aram
Another adversarial nation mentioned in the superscription of the psalm, indicating the broader geopolitical struggles Israel faced.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God allows challenges and upheavals for His purposes. Our response should be to seek His guidance and healing.

Prayer for Restoration
Just as David prayed for healing of the land's fractures, we should intercede for restoration in our personal lives and communities.

Trust Amidst Turmoil
Even when circumstances are unstable, trust in God's ability to heal and restore. He is our ultimate source of stability.

Repentance and Reflection
Times of shaking can be opportunities for self-examination and repentance, aligning ourselves more closely with God's will.

Community and National Intercession
Encourage prayer not only for personal issues but also for broader societal and national healing, recognizing our collective need for God's intervention.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of David's battles enhance our interpretation of Psalm 60:2?

2. In what ways can we apply the imagery of a "shaken land" to our personal lives today?

3. How do other scriptures that speak of the earth shaking (e.g., Isaiah 24, Psalm 46) deepen our understanding of God's power and presence?

4. What practical steps can we take to seek God's healing in areas of our lives that feel fractured or unstable?

5. How can we incorporate prayers for national and community healing into our regular spiritual practices, following David's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 24:19-20
This passage also speaks of the earth being violently shaken, drawing a parallel to the imagery in Psalm 60:2 of a land in turmoil.

2 Samuel 8:13-14
Provides historical context for David's victories over Edom, which is relevant to understanding the backdrop of Psalm 60.

Psalm 46:2-3
Offers a similar theme of the earth shaking, yet emphasizes God's presence as a refuge, complementing the plea for healing in Psalm 60:2.