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Book of Psalms - Chapter 74 - Verse 14

74:14
Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces, and gavest him to be meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness.

Meaning

In this verse, the image of 'breaking the heads of Leviathan in pieces' is a powerful metaphor used in the Bible to symbolize God's control over chaos and evil. Leviathan was a monstrous sea creature mentioned in the Old Testament, often representing chaos and primal forces that threaten God's creation. By breaking the heads of Leviathan, God demonstrates his supreme power and ability to defeat any forces that oppose him. The reference to giving Leviathan as food to the people inhabiting the wilderness further emphasizes God's authority and ability to provide for his people even in the most desolate and inhospitable places. This verse serves as a reminder of God's strength, protection, and provision for his people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the imagery of God breaking the heads of Leviathan in pieces and giving him as food to the people inhabiting the wilderness serves as a powerful metaphor for the defeat of evil forces by divine intervention. Leviathan, a sea monster often seen as a symbol of chaos and destruction in ancient Near Eastern mythology, is here used to highlight God's supreme power and ability to overcome any obstacle. The breaking of Leviathan's heads symbolizes God's authority over all that opposes Him, while the feeding of Leviathan's flesh to the people in the wilderness may symbolize God's ability to sustain His people even in the most barren and desolate of places. The theological interpretation of this verse points to God's sovereignty, protection, and provision for His people, demonstrating His ultimate triumph over evil and his provision for His faithful followers.

American Standard Version

Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces; Thou gavest him to be food to the people inhabiting the wilderness.
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