Psalms 29:6
He maketh them also to skip like a calfe: Lebanon, and Sirion like a yong Unicorne. Psalms 29:6 (KJV)
Psalm 29 is attributed to King David and is a hymn of praise that extols the glory and power of God. It focuses on the majestic display of God’s voice in the thunderstorm. In verse 6, David uses vivid imagery to describe the impact of God’s voice on nature.
The pronoun “them” in this verse refers to the trees and mountains mentioned in the preceding verses. David personifies nature, portraying its response to the divine voice. By showing that even the strongest and most stable elements of creation are moved, he emphasizes the overwhelming power of God.
“To skip like a calf” compares the movement of the trees and mountains to the lively, energetic skipping of a young calf. The analogy suggests a joyful and vigorous reaction, highlighting the dynamic and vibrant character of creation when confronted with the Almighty’s voice.
“Lebanon and Sirion” points to two prominent high places. Lebanon is famed for its towering cedar forests, while Sirion, another name for Mount Hermon, was a notable peak in the same region. By mentioning these well‑known, imposing landscapes, David underscores that even the most impressive and seemingly immovable features of the earth are stirred by God’s voice.
The phrase “like a young unicorn” has been rendered in some translations as “young wild ox.” The Hebrew word re’em has generated scholarly debate; some view it as a reference to an extinct wild ox, while others see it as a metaphor for untamed strength. Regardless of the exact animal, the comparison serves to emphasize the extraordinary effect of God’s voice, even on creatures that might be considered formidable.
Overall, verse 6 paints a picture of creation responding with exuberant motion to the thunderous voice of the Creator, reminding believers of the awe‑inspiring power that underlies all of nature.
