Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Psalms - Chapter 18 - Verse 11

18:11
He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Psalms describes how God uses darkness as a place of mystery and power. The image of darkness being God's secret place emphasizes the idea that there are aspects of God's nature and character that are beyond human comprehension. The mention of dark waters and thick clouds further paints a picture of God's majesty and sovereignty. In ancient Hebrew culture, darkness was often associated with the unknown and the divine, highlighting God's transcendence and incomprehensibility. The imagery of darkness surrounding God like a pavilion signifies His protection and presence in the midst of difficulty and uncertainty. Overall, this verse conveys the idea that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His power and mystery are beyond our understanding.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Psalm 18:11 is that it describes God's mysterious and awe-inspiring nature. The imagery of darkness, secret places, dark waters, and thick clouds conveys the idea of God's majesty and power being beyond human comprehension. The darkness symbolizes the hidden and unknowable aspects of God, while the pavilion and clouds suggest his transcendence and sovereignty over all creation. This verse highlights the unfathomable depths of God's being and the veil of mystery that surrounds him. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of human understanding in the face of the divine and encourages humility and reverence in our approach to God.

American Standard Version

He made darkness his hiding-place, his pavilion round about him, Darkness of waters, thick clouds of the skies.
Previous VerseNext Verse