God’s mighty acts in creation are described in terms of his placing the mountains in place and subduing the raging seas (verses 6-7b). According to the concept of the universe at that time, the mountains, which are visible above the surface of the earth, were thought to extend far down into the underworld, serving as the columns on which the surface of the earth rests. The phrase by thy strength as the means for putting the mountains in their places must be expressed in some languages as “because you are strong you put the mountains in their places.”

God’s might is spoken of as the belt which he tightens around his waist as he prepares to act (see also 93.1). Verse 6b being girded with might may be understood either as “because you clothed yourself with strength” (see Bible en français courant “you are armed with power”) or “making a display of your great strength.” The former is preferable. Being girded with might may be rendered, for example, “because you are very strong.”

The seas represent the powers of chaos and disorder that continually threaten the established order of the universe which God brought into being (see 89.9-10; 93.3-4; 104.5-9).

God is also the supreme ruler of all humankind (verse 7c); he calms the tumult of the peoples, that is, the angry words and actions of those who rebel against him, just as he calms the rebellious seas. Tumult is frequently used to express “rebellion.”

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .