Psalms 60:2

Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heale the breaches thereof, for it shaketh. Psalms 60:2 (KJV)

Psalm 60 is attributed to David and is classified as a psalm of lament. It was likely composed in a period of great distress—perhaps when David faced military defeat or when the nation of Israel endured hardship. The psalm opens with a desperate plea for God’s intervention and closes with a confident declaration of victory.

The opening phrase, “Thou hast made the earth to tremble,” symbolizes a state of upheaval, turmoil, and distress. It conveys the magnitude of the trouble confronting David and his people and underscores the power and sovereignty of God over all creation.

The words “thou hast broken it” suggest that God allowed or caused the distressing situation. This language points to divine judgment or discipline, indicating that the enemies were permitted to prevail, perhaps as a consequence of Israel’s disobedience or unfaithfulness.

In response, the psalmist cries, “heal the breaches thereof.” David recognises that only God can bring true healing and restoration to the brokenness. The plea reflects a desire for God to mend the fractured relationship between Him and His people and to restore their land, strength, and fortunes.

The concluding expression, “for it shaketh,” conveys steadfast trust in God’s faithfulness despite the trembling earth. David believes that God will ultimately bring stability, deliverance, and victory over the enemies.

Thus Psalm 60:2 portrays a time of national distress, highlights God’s supreme power, suggests that the hardships stem from divine judgment, and records the psalmist’s earnest prayer for healing. It ends with a resolute confidence in God’s faithfulness and the expectation of triumph.