Psalms 60:6

God hath spoken in his holiness; I will rejoice, I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth.

Psalms 60:6 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 60 is attributed to David and is a lament, likely written during a time of military distress or setback. The psalm pleads for God’s assistance and acknowledges His sovereignty over the nations. In this verse, David declares that God has spoken, and he responds with rejoicing and confidence.

Meaning

The phrase “God hath spoken in his holiness” emphasizes divine authority and purity. It signifies that God has communicated His will in a manner consistent with His holiness, making His word trustworthy and reliable. Some translations render this as “from his sanctuary,” indicating that God speaks from His holy place, whether in heaven, the tabernacle, or through His holy prophets. The Targum interprets it as “in the house of the sanctuary,” and the Arabic version as “by His Holy Ones,” referring to holy prophets like Samuel and Nathan through whom God spoke to David.

“I will rejoice” reflects a declaration of joy and victory that follows God’s promised intervention. The psalmist reports God’s words, affirming that the divine response will bring rejoicing for His people. Shechem and Succoth were places of historical significance in Israel. Shechem lay in the central region of the land, while Succoth was situated in the eastern area. These names symbolize the territories and possessions that God’s people were entitled to inherit. The declaration to “divide Shechem and mete out the valley of Succoth” is a proclamation of God’s authority to establish boundaries and grant possession of the promised land to Israel.

Biblical connections

This verse is also quoted in Psalm 108:7, where it is used in a psalm of praise and confidence, combining verses from Psalm 57 and Psalm 60. The repetition underscores the certainty of God’s promise.

Application

God’s holiness is the foundation of His promises. Because He is holy, His word is reliable. Believers can find joy in God’s faithfulness even amid challenging circumstances, trusting that He will fulfill His covenant to give His people an inheritance.

Reflection

Consider how God’s holy word brings assurance in times of trouble. Rejoice in the certainty of His promises and His power to secure the inheritance He has assigned to His people.