◄ Psalm 29 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Ascribe Glory to the LORD A Psalm of David. 1 Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings,a ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.b 3The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders; the LORD is heard over many waters. 4The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic. 5The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon. 6He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirionc like a young wild ox. 7The voice of the LORD strikes with flames of fire. 8The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh. 9The voice of the LORD twists the oaksd and strips the forests bare. And in His temple all cry, “Glory!” 10The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever. 11The LORD gives His people strength; the LORD blesses His people with peace. Footnotes: 1 a Or sons of God or sons of might 2 b Or in holy attire 6 c That is, Mount Hermon 9 d Or LORD makes the deer to calve Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 29 Summary Ascribe Glory to the LORD Verses 1–2 – Glory for the King David summons the heavenly beings—literally the “sons of the mighty”—to give the LORD the glory and strength that already belong to Him. Creation’s highest powers are told to “worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness,” recognizing His matchless beauty and power. Verses 3–4 – Thunder over the Waters The scene shifts to a gathering storm above the Mediterranean Sea. “The voice of the LORD is over the waters… the LORD is over many waters.” Thunder rolls like divine speech, announcing a power that is both “powerful” and “majestic.” Verses 5–6 – Cedars Shattered, Mountains Dancing As the storm moves inland, “the voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon.” Towering trees snap, and whole ranges—Lebanon and Sirion (Mount Hermon)—seem to leap like playful animals under the impact. Verses 7–9 – Fire, Quake, and a Global Cry of ‘Glory!’ Lightning bolts (“flames of fire”) crack the sky. The rumble shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh far to the south. Oaks twist, forests are stripped bare, and every worshiper in God’s temple can only exclaim, “Glory!” Verses 10–11 – The Ever-Enthroned King Gives Peace Above the chaos, “the LORD sits enthroned over the flood.” The same God who once ruled the waters of Noah’s day still reigns. He not only controls the storm; He “gives His people strength” and “blesses His people with peace.” Psalm 29, a composition of King David, is a powerful exhortation to honor and acknowledge the grandeur and might of God. It portrays the majestic voice of the Lord echoing through nature, commanding both awe and reverence. Through symbolic landscapes and vibrant imagery, it conveys the omnipotent presence of God and His promise of peace for His people. Authorship and Setting Psalm 29 is attributed to David. The imagery fits a violent thunderstorm that sweeps eastward from the Mediterranean, climbs Lebanon’s heights, races across Mount Hermon, then rolls down to the deserts of southern Israel. Israelite hearers would have seen and heard storms just like this, making the psalm vivid and immediate. Literary Structure: A Sevenfold Voice The phrase “the voice of the LORD” appears seven times (vv. 3, 4, 5, 5, 7, 8, 9), mirroring the Hebrew idea of completeness and perfection. 1. Over the waters 2. Powerful 3. Majestic 4. Breaking cedars 5. Striking with fire 6. Shaking the wilderness 7. Twisting the oaks / stripping forests Historical Geography • Lebanon and Sirion (Mount Hermon) were famous for cedar forests prized in temple building (1 Kings 5:6–10). • The Wilderness of Kadesh lies in the Negev. The storm racing from the far north to the far south portrays God’s rule over the whole land. • “Flood” (v. 10) recalls the global deluge of Genesis 6–9, reminding the reader that the God of the storm is also the God of history’s greatest waters. Polemic Against Canaanite Religion Canaanites worshiped Baal as the storm-god who rode clouds and sent thunder. Psalm 29 turns that imagery on its head, placing the LORD alone on the storm chariot. Similar polemics appear in 1 Kings 18 (Elijah on Mount Carmel) and Jeremiah 10:11–13. Archaeological Insights • Ugaritic tablets (14th century BC) call Baal “Cloud-Rider.” Psalm 68:4 and Psalm 104:3 borrow the phrase for the LORD, showing a deliberate contrast. • Ancient cedar logs from Lebanon were discovered in the foundations of later temples, confirming the region’s famed timber. • Egyptian records mention Kadesh-barnea as a southern border point, matching the psalm’s geography. Links to Earlier Scripture • Thunder and fire on Sinai (Exodus 19:16–18) reveal God’s voice in storm. • The flood reference echoes Genesis 9:11, assuring that the LORD who once judged the earth now promises peace. • Job 38–41 unfolds similar storm imagery, ending with Job’s humble worship, exactly as the temple crowds cry “Glory!” New Testament Connections • At Jesus’ baptism “a voice from heaven” declares His Sonship (Matthew 3:17), again using storm language to reveal God. • Revelation 10:3–4 describes seven thunders speaking, alluding to the sevenfold “voice of the LORD” here. • Mark 4:39 shows Jesus calming a storm with a word, displaying the same authority Psalm 29 ascribes to the LORD. Key Themes 1. God’s absolute sovereignty—He commands creation from sea to desert. 2. Worship—heavenly beings and earthly worshipers unite in giving glory. 3. Strength and peace—divine power does not crush God’s people but blesses them. Practical Takeaways • Thunderstorms can remind believers of God’s presence, not just His power. • When circumstances feel chaotic, picture the LORD “enthroned over the flood.” • The strength He displays in nature is the same strength He offers to His people (Philippians 4:13; Isaiah 40:29–31). Connections to Other Psalms • Psalm 18:12–15—thunder and lightning as divine weapons. • Psalm 104—creation hymn that also describes God riding the clouds. • Psalm 93—“The LORD reigns… mightier than the thunder of many waters.” Summary Thought The storm passes, forests stand stripped, mountains echo, and everything falls silent—except the chorus of worship. The psalm ends where it began: glory to the King who sits forever, sharing His strength and peace with all who trust Him. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 1:3 And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light. This verse highlights the creative power of God's voice, similar to the themes in Psalm 29. Isaiah 6:3 And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.' This passage echoes the call to recognize God's glory and majesty. Mark 4:39 Then Jesus got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. 'Silence!' He commanded. 'Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm. This New Testament account of Jesus calming the storm demonstrates His divine authority over nature, resonating with the themes of Psalm 29. Teaching Points The Call to Worship Psalm 29 begins with a call to ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength (Psalm 29:1). This sets the tone for the entire psalm, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and declaring God's glory. The Power of God's Voice The psalmist repeatedly highlights the power of God's voice, describing it as over the waters, powerful, and full of majesty (Psalm 29:3-4). This imagery underscores God's control over nature and His ability to command creation with His voice. God's Sovereignty Over Creation The psalm describes various natural phenomena, such as the breaking of cedars and the shaking of the wilderness, as manifestations of God's power (Psalm 29:5-8). This illustrates His sovereignty over all creation. The Lord's Reign and Peace The psalm concludes with a reminder of God's eternal reign and His ability to bless His people with peace (Psalm 29:10-11). This serves as a comforting assurance of God's control and care for His people. Practical Applications Recognize God's Majesty Take time each day to acknowledge and praise God's power and majesty in your life. Reflect on the ways He has demonstrated His strength and authority in your personal experiences. Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty or fear, remember that God is in control. His voice commands the universe, and He is more than capable of handling the challenges you face. Seek God's Peace As you meditate on God's power, allow His peace to fill your heart. Trust that the same God who controls the storms can bring calm and peace to your life. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Psalm 29, the LORD is depicted as powerful and majestic. The psalm describes His voice as being over the waters, full of majesty, and capable of breaking cedars and shaking the wilderness. The Hebrew name used here is "Yahweh," emphasizing His covenantal relationship with Israel and His supreme authority over creation. 2. Heavenly beings (sons of God) In verse 1, the psalm calls on the "heavenly beings" or "sons of God" to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD. The Hebrew term used is "בְּנֵי אֵלִים" (bene elohim), which can refer to angelic beings or divine council members who are called to worship and honor the LORD. Places 1. The Waters In Psalm 29:3, the "voice of the LORD is over the waters." This refers to the mighty and powerful presence of God over the chaotic and vast waters, symbolizing His authority and control over creation. The Hebrew word used here is "מַיִם" (mayim), which often represents chaos and the primordial sea in ancient Near Eastern thought. 2. Lebanon Mentioned in Psalm 29:5-6, Lebanon is known for its majestic cedar trees. The "voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon." This illustrates God's power to break even the strongest and most majestic of trees, symbolizing His supreme strength. The Hebrew root "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon) refers to the mountain range and the region known for its forests. 3. Sirion In Psalm 29:6, Sirion is another name for Mount Hermon. "He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox." This imagery conveys the idea of mountains, which are typically stable and immovable, being made to leap, demonstrating God's overwhelming power. The name "Sirion" is derived from the Hebrew "שִׂרְיוֹן" (Siryon), used in Deuteronomy 3:9 as a Sidonian name for Hermon. 4. The Wilderness of Kadesh Psalm 29:8 mentions the "wilderness of Kadesh." The voice of the LORD "shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh." This refers to a desert region, possibly in the southern part of Canaan, known for its barrenness and desolation. The Hebrew "קָדֵשׁ" (Kadesh) signifies a place of sanctity or holiness, often associated with the Israelites' wanderings. Events 1. Call to Worship "Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength." (Psalm 29:1) The psalm begins with a call for the heavenly beings, or "sons of God" (Hebrew: בְּנֵי אֵלִים, benei elim), to recognize and declare the glory and strength of the LORD. 2. Glory to His Name "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness." (Psalm 29:2) The psalmist urges worship in the beauty or splendor of holiness, emphasizing the LORD's majestic nature. 3. The Voice of the LORD over the Waters "The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders; the LORD is heard over many waters." (Psalm 29:3) The voice of the LORD is depicted as powerful and majestic, echoing over the waters, reminiscent of creation and divine authority. 4. The Power of the LORD's Voice "The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty." (Psalm 29:4) The psalm emphasizes the strength and majesty of God's voice, using the Hebrew word "כֹּחַ" (koach) for power. 5. The Voice of the LORD Breaks the Cedars "The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon." (Psalm 29:5) The LORD's voice is so powerful that it can break the mighty cedars, symbolizing His supreme power over creation. 6. The LORD's Voice and the Mountains "He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox." (Psalm 29:6) The imagery of mountains skipping illustrates the overwhelming power of God's voice, causing even the earth to move. 7. The Voice of the LORD in Flames of Fire "The voice of the LORD strikes with flames of fire." (Psalm 29:7) This portrays the LORD's voice as having the power to create and control fire, symbolizing purification and judgment. 8. The Voice of the LORD Shakes the Wilderness "The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh." (Psalm 29:8) The wilderness, often a place of desolation, is shaken by the LORD's voice, demonstrating His dominion over all lands. 9. The Voice of the LORD and the Deer "The voice of the LORD twists the oaks and strips the forests bare. And in His temple all cry, 'Glory!'" (Psalm 29:9) The LORD's voice affects nature profoundly, and the response in His temple is one of awe and worship, crying "Glory!" 10. The LORD's Sovereignty and Peace "The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever." (Psalm 29:10) The LORD's eternal kingship is affirmed, with His sovereignty extending over the chaos of the floodwaters. 11. Blessing of Strength and Peace "The LORD gives His people strength; the LORD blesses His people with peace." (Psalm 29:11) The psalm concludes with a promise of strength and peace for God's people, highlighting His care and provision. Lessons from Psalm 29 1. The Majesty of God's Voice Psalm 29 opens with a powerful depiction of God's voice, described as majestic and full of splendor. "The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders" (Psalm 29:3). This reminds us of the awe-inspiring power of God's word, which spoke the universe into existence. In our daily lives, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that the same voice that commands the seas is guiding us. 2. Worship in the Beauty of Holiness The psalm calls us to "ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness" (Psalm 29:2). This is a call to recognize God's holiness and respond with reverence and adoration. In our routines, setting aside time for worship can transform our perspective, aligning our hearts with His divine purpose. 3. God's Sovereignty Over Nature Throughout Psalm 29, the imagery of storms and natural phenomena highlights God's control over creation. "The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon" (Psalm 29:5). This serves as a reminder that no matter how chaotic life may seem, God is sovereign over all. Trusting in His control can bring peace amidst life's storms. 4. The Power of God's Voice in Our Lives The psalm emphasizes the transformative power of God's voice, which "strikes with flashes of lightning" (Psalm 29:7). Just as lightning illuminates the sky, God's word can illuminate our path, providing clarity and direction. Regularly engaging with Scripture can help us navigate life's challenges with wisdom and insight. 5. God's Glory in Creation Psalm 29 paints a vivid picture of God's glory displayed in creation. "The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh" (Psalm 29:8). Observing the beauty and complexity of the natural world can deepen our appreciation for the Creator and inspire us to live in harmony with His creation. 6. The Call to Acknowledge God's Strength The psalmist urges us to recognize God's strength, which is unmatched and unparalleled. "The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace" (Psalm 29:11). In moments of weakness, we can draw on His strength, knowing that He empowers us to overcome obstacles and fulfill His purposes. 7. The Assurance of God's Peace Amidst the powerful imagery of storms and thunder, the psalm concludes with a promise of peace. "The LORD blesses His people with peace" (Psalm 29:11). This peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God in our lives. By seeking His presence, we can experience a peace that surpasses all understanding. 8. The Invitation to Praise Psalm 29 is a call to praise, inviting us to join in the heavenly chorus that glorifies God. "Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength" (Psalm 29:1). Praise is a powerful practice that shifts our focus from our problems to God's greatness, fostering gratitude and joy. 9. The Reminder of God's Eternal Reign The psalm affirms God's eternal reign, declaring, "The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever" (Psalm 29:10). This assurance of His eternal sovereignty provides hope and stability, reminding us that no earthly power can thwart His divine plan. 10. The Encouragement to Listen Finally, Psalm 29 encourages us to listen for God's voice in our lives. Just as His voice commands the elements, it can guide and direct us. By cultivating a habit of listening through prayer and meditation, we open ourselves to His guidance and wisdom, allowing His voice to shape our journey. Topics 1. Call to Worship and Ascribe Glory to God The psalm begins with a call to the "sons of God" to ascribe glory and strength to the Lord. This reflects the Hebrew term "bĕne 'elim," which can be understood as heavenly beings or angels. ^"Ascribe to the LORD, O sons of God, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength."^ (Psalm 29:1) 2. The Majesty of God's Voice The voice of the Lord is described as powerful and majestic, emphasizing God's supreme authority over creation. The Hebrew word "qol" (voice) is repeated, highlighting its significance. ^"The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders; the LORD is heard over many waters."^ (Psalm 29:3) 3. God's Sovereignty Over Nature The psalm illustrates God's control over natural elements, such as waters, forests, and mountains, symbolizing His dominion over the earth. ^"The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon."^ (Psalm 29:5) 4. The Power of God's Voice in Creation God's voice is depicted as having the power to create and transform, shaking the wilderness and causing the deer to give birth. This reflects the creative and life-giving aspect of God's word. ^"The voice of the LORD twists the oaks and strips the forests bare. And in His temple all cry, 'Glory!'"^ (Psalm 29:9) 5. God's Eternal Reign and Peace The psalm concludes with a declaration of God's eternal reign and His ability to bless His people with peace. The Hebrew word "shalom" (peace) signifies completeness and well-being. ^"The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever. The LORD gives His people strength; the LORD blesses His people with peace."^ (Psalm 29:10-11) Themes 1. The Call to Worship The psalm begins with a call to the "sons of God" to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD (Psalm 29:1). The Hebrew term "bĕnê 'ēlîm" (בְּנֵי אֵלִים) can be understood as heavenly beings or angels, emphasizing the universal call to worship God. 2. The Glory of God's Name The psalmist urges worshipers to "ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name" (Psalm 29:2). The focus on God's name highlights His character and reputation, which are worthy of honor and reverence. 3. The Power of God's Voice A central theme is the power of God's voice, described as "over the waters" and "full of majesty" (Psalm 29:3-4). The Hebrew word "qôl" (קוֹל) for "voice" underscores the authority and command inherent in God's spoken word. 4. God's Sovereignty Over Creation The psalm vividly describes God's control over natural elements, such as the "cedars of Lebanon" and the "wilderness of Kadesh" (Psalm 29:5-8). This demonstrates His sovereignty over all creation, reinforcing His omnipotence. 5. The Majesty of God's Presence The imagery of God's presence in the storm, with "flashes of lightning" and the shaking of the wilderness, conveys His majestic and awe-inspiring nature (Psalm 29:7-8). The Hebrew root "hāḏār" (הָדָר) for "majesty" reflects splendor and grandeur. 6. God's Holiness The psalm concludes with a call to worship the LORD "in the splendor of holiness" (Psalm 29:2). The Hebrew word "qōḏesh" (קֹדֶשׁ) for "holiness" signifies God's purity and set-apartness, inviting believers to approach Him with reverence. 7. God's Blessing of Peace The final verse promises that "the LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace" (Psalm 29:11). This assurance of divine strength and peace highlights God's benevolence and care for His covenant people. Prayer Points Praise for God's Majesty Thank God for His incredible power and majesty, as revealed in creation and in your life. Trust in God's Sovereignty Pray for a deeper trust in God's control over your circumstances, asking Him to help you surrender your fears and anxieties to Him. Peace in God's Presence Ask God to fill you with His peace, especially in times of turmoil or uncertainty, and to help you rest in His promises. As we study Psalm 29, may we be reminded of the awe-inspiring power of God's voice and find comfort in His eternal reign and peace. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 29:3 refers to God’s voice thundering over the waters; how does this align with modern meteorological explanations of storms and thunder? 2. Psalm 29:5 states the Lord’s voice shatters the cedars of Lebanon; what evidence supports the claim that a divine voice can cause literal destruction of trees? 3. Psalm 29:8 describes the Lord’s voice shaking the wilderness of Kadesh; where is the historical or archeological record of such a cataclysmic event taking place? 4. Psalm 29:10 mentions the Lord sitting enthroned over the flood; if this points to a universal flood, why do we lack conclusive global geological or archeological proof of it? 5. How can Psalm 29's attribution of natural forces to God be reconciled with scientific laws of weather and tectonics? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David describe the voice of the Lord in Psalm 29? What significance does this have for understanding the nature and power of God? 2. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's power in your life. How did it affect your understanding of Him? 3. How does Psalm 29 emphasize the importance of worshiping God in "the beauty of holiness"? 4. How can we apply the imagery of God's voice in nature to our contemporary environmental concerns? 5. What emotions does David's description of God's power evoke in you? Why? 6. Why does David call upon the heavenly beings to worship God? How does this relate to our call to worship? 7. How does the promise of God's peace in verse 11 provide comfort during turbulent times in our lives? 8. Discuss the importance of acknowledging God's sovereign rule over the universe as presented in Psalm 29. 9. How can the themes of Psalm 29 be used to inspire others in their faith journey? 10. What does the phrase "the Lord sits enthroned over the flood" symbolize, and how can this symbolism be related to personal life challenges? 11. How does Psalm 29 shape your understanding of the relationship between God and nature? 12. How does the imagery of God's power in Psalm 29 contrast with other portrayals of God's character in the Bible (e.g., as a shepherd, a father)? 13. How can we incorporate the practice of ascribing glory to God into our daily lives? 14. In the modern world, where do you see or hear the 'voice of God' as described in this Psalm? 15. How can Psalm 29 enhance our understanding of the divine-human relationship? 16. In what ways can God's promise of strength be manifested in personal experiences? 17. How might the call to worship in Psalm 29 influence a believer's approach to public or communal worship? 18. What practical actions could you take to demonstrate your acknowledgment of God's sovereignty as outlined in Psalm 29? 19. How might the peace of God, as mentioned in verse 11, differ from the world's understanding of peace? 20. How can Psalm 29 inspire a deeper commitment to trust God amidst life's challenges? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions