Psalms 29

Ps 29 This nature hymn in praise of the Creator declares that the Lord holds all power over nature. God uses the same unsurpassed strength to care for his people.29:1-2 The psalmist issues a call to honor the Lord for his power (cp. 96:7-8). • you heavenly beings: Angels or deities who, some believed, held special powers. The psalmist did not believe in other deities but called on people who thought they were real to look to the Lord as the only God.

29:3-9 The word translated voice (Hebrew qol) can also mean “noise” (1 Kgs 1:45) or “thunder” (Joel 3:16). The Lord’s voice is awe-inspiring, and it dominates whatever rumblings people might attribute to other deities.

29:5 The cedars of Lebanon were known for their size and quality (see Isa 2:13).

29:6 Lebanon’s mountains and Hermon are high mountains to the north of Israel. • The Lord can cause even immense mountains to shake at his command (see 114:4).

29:8 The wilderness of Kadesh was located south of Judah. God’s voice can be heard throughout the land, from the north (29:6) to the south.

29:10 The image of powerful floodwaters connects with the Genesis flood (Gen 6:17). The Lord reigns as king over the whole created order; no one contests his kingdom.

29:11 The ruler of nature blesses his people with peace (see 28:8-9; 37:11; 133:3).