Habakkuk 3:16
Habakkuk 3:16 in Multiple Translations
I heard and trembled within; my lips quivered at the sound. Decay entered my bones; I trembled where I stood. Yet I must wait patiently for the day of distress to come upon the people who invade us.
When I heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble: when he cometh up unto the people, he will invade them with his troops.
I heard, and my body trembled, My lips quivered at the voice; Rottenness entereth into my bones, and I tremble in my place; Because I must wait quietly for the day of trouble, For the coming up of the people that invadeth us.
Hearing it, my inner parts were moved, and my lips were shaking at the sound; my bones became feeble, and my steps were uncertain under me: I gave sounds of grief in the day of trouble, when his forces came up against the people in bands.
I shook inside when I heard this; my lips quivered at the sound; my bones turned to jelly; I trembled where I stood. I wait quietly for the day of trouble that will come upon those who attacked us.
When I heard, my bellie trembled: my lippes shooke at the voyce: rottennesse entred into my bones, and I trembled in my selfe, that I might rest in the day of trouble: for whe he commeth vp vnto the people, he shall destroy them.
I have heard, and my belly trembleth, At the noise have my lips quivered, Rottenness doth come into my bones, And in my place I do tremble, That I rest for a day of distress, At the coming up of the people, he overcometh it.
I heard, and my body trembled. My lips quivered at the voice. Rottenness enters into my bones, and I tremble in my place because I must wait quietly for the day of trouble, for the coming up of the people who invade us.
When I heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble: when he cometh up to the people, he will invade them with his troops.
I have heard and my bowels were troubled: my lips trembled at the voice. Let rottenness enter into my bones, and swarm under me. That I may rest in the day of tribulation: that I may go up to our people that are girded.
When I saw that vision, my heart pounded and my lips quivered because I became afraid. My legs became weak and I shook, because I was terrified. But I will wait quietly for the people of Babylonia, those who invaded our country, to experience disasters!
Berean Amplified Bible — Habakkuk 3:16
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Habakkuk 3:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי
וַ/תִּרְגַּ֣ז
בִּטְנִ֗/י
לְ/קוֹל֙
צָלֲל֣וּ
שְׂפָתַ֔/י
יָב֥וֹא
רָקָ֛ב
בַּ/עֲצָמַ֖/י
וְ/תַחְתַּ֣/י
אֶרְגָּ֑ז
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
אָנ֨וּחַ֙
לְ/י֣וֹם
צָרָ֔ה
לַ/עֲל֖וֹת
לְ/עַ֥ם
יְגוּדֶֽ/נּוּ
שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
וַ/תִּרְגַּ֣ז
râgaz
H7264
to tremble
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
בִּטְנִ֗/י
beṭen
H990
belly
N-fs | Suff
לְ/קוֹל֙
qôwl
H6963
voice
Prep | N-ms
צָלֲל֣וּ
tsâlal
H6750
to tingle
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
שְׂפָתַ֔/י
sâphâh
H8193
lips
N-fd | Suff
יָב֥וֹא
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
רָקָ֛ב
râqâb
H7538
rottenness
N-ms
בַּ/עֲצָמַ֖/י
ʻetsem
H6106
bone
Prep | N-fp | Suff
וְ/תַחְתַּ֣/י
tachath
H8478
underneath
Conj | Prep | Suff
אֶרְגָּ֑ז
râgaz
H7264
to tremble
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
אָנ֨וּחַ֙
nûwach
H5117
to rest
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
לְ/י֣וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Prep | N-ms
צָרָ֔ה
tsârâh
H6869
dearth
N-fs
לַ/עֲל֖וֹת
ʻâlâh
H5927
to ascend
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לְ/עַ֥ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Prep | N-ms
יְגוּדֶֽ/נּוּ
gûwd
H1464
to raid
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Habakkuk 3:16
שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
וַ/תִּרְגַּ֣ז
râgaz
H7264
"to tremble"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
In the Bible, this word means to shake or tremble with strong emotions like fear, anger, or excitement. It can also mean to provoke or disturb someone, causing them to become agitated. The KJV Bible translates it in various ways, including 'tremble', 'quake', and 'rage'.
Definition: 1) tremble, quake, rage, quiver, be agitated, be excited, be perturbed 1a)(Qal) to quake, be disquieted, be excited, be perturbed 1b) (Hiphil) to cause to quake, disquiet, enrage, disturb 1c) (Hithpael) to excite oneself
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: be afraid, stand in awe, disquiet, fall out, fret, move, provoke, quake, rage, shake, tremble, trouble, be wroth. See also: Genesis 45:24; Isaiah 5:25; Psalms 4:5.
בִּטְנִ֗/י
beṭen
H990
"belly"
N-fs | Suff
This Hebrew word refers to the belly or womb, and is used to describe the seat of hunger, emotions, and even the depths of the afterlife. It is used in the Bible to describe the body and its functions. The KJV translates it as belly, body, or womb.
Definition: : abdomen 1) belly, womb, body 1a) belly, abdomen 1a1) as seat of hunger 1a2) as seat of mental faculties 1a3) of depth of Sheol (fig.) 1b) womb
Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: belly, body, [phrase] as they be born, [phrase] within, womb. See also: Genesis 25:23; Psalms 22:10; Psalms 17:14.
לְ/קוֹל֙
qôwl
H6963
"voice"
Prep | N-ms
A voice or sound, it can refer to the sound of a person speaking, an animal, or a musical instrument. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's voice or the sound of praise and worship.
Definition: : sound/noise 1) voice, sound, noise 1a) voice 1b) sound (of instrument)
Usage: Occurs in 436 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, bleating, crackling, cry ([phrase] out), fame, lightness, lowing, noise, [phrase] hold peace, (pro-) claim, proclamation, [phrase] sing, sound, [phrase] spark, thunder(-ing), voice, [phrase] yell. See also: Genesis 3:8; Judges 5:11; Job 4:10.
צָלֲל֣וּ
tsâlal
H6750
"to tingle"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to tingle or quiver, often describing the feeling of shame or fear. It is used in the Bible to describe physical reactions to emotions.
Definition: 1) to tingle, quiver 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to tingle (of ears) 1a2) to quiver (of fear)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: quiver, tingle. See also: 1 Samuel 3:11; Jeremiah 19:3; Habakkuk 3:16.
שְׂפָתַ֔/י
sâphâh
H8193
"lips"
N-fd | Suff
This word refers to lips or language, and can also mean the edge or border of something. It is used in the Bible to describe the shore of a sea or the edge of a cup.
Definition: : lips/mouth 1) lip, language, speech, shore, bank, brink, brim, side, edge, border, binding 1a) lip (as body part) 1b) language 1c) edge, shore, bank (of cup, sea, river, etc)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: band, bank, binding, border, brim, brink, edge, language, lip, prating, (sea-)shore, side, speech, talk, (vain) words. See also: Genesis 11:1; Psalms 120:2; Psalms 12:3.
יָב֥וֹא
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
רָקָ֛ב
râqâb
H7538
"rottenness"
N-ms
This noun means rottenness or decay, often used figuratively to describe moral or spiritual corruption, like in Job 13:28 where a person's body is compared to rotting clothes.
Definition: rottenness, decay (always fig)
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: rottenness (thing). See also: Job 13:28; Proverbs 14:30; Proverbs 12:4.
בַּ/עֲצָמַ֖/י
ʻetsem
H6106
"bone"
Prep | N-fp | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word refers to a bone or the body, and can also mean the substance or essence of something. It is used in many parts of the Bible, including in the book of Genesis and Psalms, to describe the physical body.
Definition: : bone/limb 1) bone, essence, substance 1a) bone 1a1) body, limbs, members, external body 1b) bone (of animal) 1c) substance, self
Usage: Occurs in 108 OT verses. KJV: body, bone, [idiom] life, (self-) same, strength, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 2:23; Job 33:19; Psalms 6:3.
וְ/תַחְתַּ֣/י
tachath
H8478
"underneath"
Conj | Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means underneath or below, often used to describe physical locations or positions. It appears in various books, including Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to indicate something is under or beneath something else. The word has several related meanings.
Definition: : under/below 1) the under part, beneath, instead of, as, for, for the sake of, flat, unto, where, whereas n m 1a) the under part adv accus 1b) beneath prep 1c) under, beneath 1c1) at the foot of (idiom) 1c2) sweetness, subjection, woman, being burdened or oppressed (fig) 1c3) of subjection or conquest 1d) what is under one, the place in which one stands 1d1) in one's place, the place in which one stands (idiom with reflexive pronoun) 1d2) in place of, instead of (in transferred sense) 1d3) in place of, in exchange or return for (of things mutually interchanged) conj 1e) instead of, instead of that 1f) in return for that, because that in compounds 1g) in, under, into the place of (after verbs of motion) 1h) from under, from beneath, from under the hand of, from his place, under, beneath
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: as, beneath, [idiom] flat, in(-stead), (same) place (where...is), room, for...sake, stead of, under, [idiom] unto, [idiom] when...was mine, whereas, (where-) fore, with. See also: Genesis 1:7; Deuteronomy 7:24; 1 Kings 20:42.
אֶרְגָּ֑ז
râgaz
H7264
"to tremble"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
In the Bible, this word means to shake or tremble with strong emotions like fear, anger, or excitement. It can also mean to provoke or disturb someone, causing them to become agitated. The KJV Bible translates it in various ways, including 'tremble', 'quake', and 'rage'.
Definition: 1) tremble, quake, rage, quiver, be agitated, be excited, be perturbed 1a)(Qal) to quake, be disquieted, be excited, be perturbed 1b) (Hiphil) to cause to quake, disquiet, enrage, disturb 1c) (Hithpael) to excite oneself
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: be afraid, stand in awe, disquiet, fall out, fret, move, provoke, quake, rage, shake, tremble, trouble, be wroth. See also: Genesis 45:24; Isaiah 5:25; Psalms 4:5.
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
אָנ֨וּחַ֙
nûwach
H5117
"to rest"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
To rest means to settle down and remain in one place, and can be used literally or figuratively. This verb appears in many parts of the Bible, including Exodus 20:11 and Matthew 11:28.
Definition: 1) to rest 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to rest, settle down and remain 1a2) to repose, have rest, be quiet 1b) (Hiph) 1b1) to cause to rest, give rest to, make quiet 1b2) to cause to rest, cause to alight, set down 1b3) to lay or set down, deposit, let lie, place 1b4) to let remain, leave 1b5) to leave, depart from 1b6) to abandon 1b7) to permit 1c) (Hoph) 1c1) to obtain rest, be granted rest 1c2) to be left, be placed 1c3) open space (subst) Also means: ya.nach (יָנַח "to rest" H3240)
Usage: Occurs in 67 OT verses. KJV: cease, be confederate, lay, let down, (be) quiet, remain, (cause to, be at, give, have, make to) rest, set down. Compare H3241 (יָנִים). See also: Genesis 8:4; Nehemiah 9:28; Psalms 125:3.
לְ/י֣וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
צָרָ֔ה
tsârâh
H6869
"dearth"
N-fs
A vexer is someone who causes trouble or distress, like a rival wife, used in the Bible to describe relationships or situations that cause anguish or affliction, as seen in the book of Genesis.
Definition: death, destitution
Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: adversary, adversity, affliction, anguish, distress, tribulation, trouble. See also: Genesis 35:3; Psalms 116:3; Psalms 9:10.
לַ/עֲל֖וֹת
ʻâlâh
H5927
"to ascend"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.
Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself
Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.
לְ/עַ֥ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Prep | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
יְגוּדֶֽ/נּוּ
gûwd
H1464
"to raid"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
This Hebrew word means to attack or invade, like when an army crowds in on a city. It appears in the Bible to describe times of war or conquest. In the KJV, it's translated as 'invade' or 'overcome'.
Definition: 1) to invade, attack 1a) (Qal) to attack
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: invade, overcome. See also: Genesis 49:19; Habakkuk 3:16.
Study Notes — Habakkuk 3:16
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- Sermons on Habakkuk 3:16
Context — Habakkuk’s Prayer
14With his own spear You pierced his head, when his warriors stormed out to scatter us, gloating as though ready to secretly devour the weak.
15You trampled the sea with Your horses, churning the great waters.
16I heard and trembled within; my lips quivered at the sound. Decay entered my bones; I trembled where I stood. Yet I must wait patiently for the day of distress to come upon the people who invade us.
17Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though the sheep are cut off from the fold and no cattle are in the stalls, 18yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jeremiah 23:9 | As for the prophets: My heart is broken within me, and all my bones tremble. I have become like a drunkard, like a man overcome by wine, because of the LORD, because of His holy words. |
| 2 | Habakkuk 1:5–11 | “Look at the nations and observe— be utterly astounded! For I am doing a work in your days that you would never believe even if someone told you. For behold, I am raising up the Chaldeans — that ruthless and impetuous nation which marches through the breadth of the earth to seize dwellings not their own. They are dreaded and feared; from themselves they derive justice and sovereignty. Their horses are swifter than leopards, fiercer than wolves of the night. Their horsemen charge ahead, and their cavalry comes from afar. They fly like a vulture, swooping down to devour. All of them come bent on violence; their hordes advance like the east wind; they gather prisoners like sand. They scoff at kings and make rulers an object of scorn. They laugh at every fortress and build up siege ramps to seize it. Then they sweep by like the wind and pass on through. They are guilty; their own strength is their god.” |
| 3 | Habakkuk 3:2 | O LORD, I have heard the report of You; I stand in awe, O LORD, of Your deeds. Revive them in these years; make them known in these years. In Your wrath, remember mercy! |
| 4 | Daniel 10:8 | So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision. No strength remained in me; my face grew deathly pale, and I was powerless. |
| 5 | Jeremiah 45:3–5 | You have said, ‘Woe is me because the LORD has added sorrow to my pain! I am worn out with groaning and have found no rest.’” Thus Jeremiah was to say to Baruch: “This is what the LORD says: Throughout the land I will demolish what I have built and uproot what I have planted. But as for you, do you seek great things for yourself? Stop seeking! For I will bring disaster on every living creature, declares the LORD, but wherever you go, I will grant your life as a spoil of war.” |
| 6 | Psalms 119:120 | My flesh trembles in awe of You; I stand in fear of Your judgments. |
| 7 | 2 Thessalonians 1:6–9 | After all, it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, and to grant relief to you who are oppressed and to us as well. This will take place when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in blazing fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might, |
| 8 | Jeremiah 25:9–11 | behold, I will summon all the families of the north, declares the LORD, and I will send for My servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, whom I will bring against this land, against its residents, and against all the surrounding nations. So I will devote them to destruction and make them an object of horror and contempt, an everlasting desolation. Moreover, I will banish from them the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of the bride and bridegroom, the sound of the millstones, and the light of the lamp. And this whole land will become a desolate wasteland, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years. |
| 9 | Psalms 94:12–13 | Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law, to grant him relief from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. |
| 10 | Jeremiah 15:10–11 | Woe to me, my mother, that you have borne me, a man of strife and conflict in all the land. I have neither lent nor borrowed, yet everyone curses me. The LORD said: “Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose; surely I will intercede with your enemy in your time of trouble, in your time of distress. |
Habakkuk 3:16 Summary
In Habakkuk 3:16, the prophet is describing his physical and emotional response to hearing the voice of God. He is so moved by the power and majesty of God that his body trembles and his lips quiver. Even though he is waiting for a time of great distress, Habakkuk is choosing to trust in God's plan and wait patiently for His deliverance, just like the psalmist in Psalm 27:14, who encourages believers to wait on the Lord and be brave. This verse reminds us that we can trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of turmoil, and that He will ultimately bring salvation to those who wait on Him (as seen in Romans 8:28).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'sound' that caused Habakkuk to tremble within?
The 'sound' refers to the voice of God, which is often associated with powerful and awe-inspiring events, as seen in Psalm 29:3-9, where the voice of the Lord is described as thundering over the waters.
Why does Habakkuk say 'decay entered my bones'?
Habakkuk's physical response to the sound is a manifestation of the fear of the Lord, which is a common theme in the Bible, as seen in Isaiah 66:2, where the Lord looks for those who tremble at His word.
What is the 'day of distress' that Habakkuk is waiting for?
The 'day of distress' refers to the time when God will judge the invading nations, as prophesied in Habakkuk 2:4-20, and will ultimately bring salvation to His people, as seen in Habakkuk 3:18.
How can Habakkuk wait patiently in the midst of turmoil?
Habakkuk's patience is rooted in his trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in Psalm 37:7, where the psalmist encourages believers to rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him, even in the face of adversity.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I need to tremble at the sound of God's voice?
- How can I cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and awe for God's power and majesty?
- In what ways can I wait patiently for God's deliverance, even when faced with uncertainty and turmoil?
- What are some ways I can practically trust in God's sovereignty, like Habakkuk, and rest in His presence?
Gill's Exposition on Habakkuk 3:16
When I heard, my belly trembled,.... His bowels, his heart within him, at the report made of what would come to pass in future time; and not so much at hearing of the judgments of God that should
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Habakkuk 3:16
When I heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble: when he cometh up unto the people,
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Habakkuk 3:16
When I heard, what dreadful desolations God threatened against Israel, , for of those he now speaketh and meditateth, having finished his elegant description of God’ s wonderful works of mercy toward Israel of old, and left them as a foundation of comfort and hope. My belly, or heart, or bowels, or inward parts, , trembled; another effect and sign of surprising fears and astonishment. At the voice; at the mere report. Rottenness entered into my bones; a consumption and decay of all my strength; a languishing of my spirits, and a declining of my rigour: a very usual effect of great fears. I trembled in myself; I was all shaken, as with an earthquake, no part was free or unshaken. That I might rest in the day of trouble; these fears awakened my remembrance of that God, and those wonders which I have recounted; these fears have occasioned my search into this mystery of Providence, that, understanding it I might, as I do, betake myself to God, and his covenanted mercies, that I may rest in him, who will make it go well with the righteous, even with those righteous who shall live to see and feel the troubles of those days. When he cometh up; the king of Babylon, with all his bitter and cruel nations, bent on violence and rapine. Unto the people; against the Jews, my people, saith the prophet. He will invade them with mighty force, and cut in pieces, make most bloody work among them. With his troops; with numerous armies, and spoil in troops, where what one leaves another will take; where none escape the fury of some or other in the troops: see this accomplished 2Ki 25.
Trapp's Commentary on Habakkuk 3:16
Habakkuk 3:16 When I heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble: when he cometh up unto the people, he will invade them with his troops.Ver. 16. When I heard, my belly trembled, &c.] Heard what? That speech of thine, Habakkuk 3:3, whereunto the prophet now returneth, after a long digression for the people’ s support and comfort. Digressions in Divine discourses are not always and absolutely unlawful. God sometimes draweth aside the doctrine, to satisfy some soul which the preacher knows not; and, sparingly used, it quickeneth attention. "O Lord, I have heard thy speech" (touching Israel’ s captivity, Habakkuk 1:6-11, and after that, the Chaldeans’ calamity, Habakkuk 2:5-18), "and was afraid," Habakkuk 3:2. Neither was this a slight or sudden pang, and soon put over; but such as soaked to the very roots, so that my belly, or my heart in my belly, trembled; see Proverbs 20:27. My lips quivered] Through want of natural heat, which in this fright was gone inward to succour the heart; as soldiers upon the approach of an enemy run into the castle. At the voice] At the dreadful denunciations of judgments. Rottenness entered into my bones] Poetico more ex signis describit, saith Gualther.
The prophet, in manner of a poet, describeth his great fear by the gracious effects and signs thereof in his body. That I might rest in the day of trouble] This was the fruit of his holy fear of God’ s imminent judgments, and that contrition of spirit that followed thereupon; viz. that both he, and all that took part with him in those pious practices of sensibleness and self-abasement, should have peace with God, and be able to call their souls to rest in the evil day. When he cometh up, &c.] i.e. The Chaldean spoiler. He will invade them with his troops] Or, cut them in pieces. And that this was done see 2 Kings 25:4-11. and the Book of Lamentations throughout. Howbeit in judgment God remembereth mercy, as the prophet had prayed; for, besides the favour that the Jews found at Babylon by means of Daniel and others, Cyrus, having taken that city, gave commandment that no Jews, or any that spake the Syrian tongue, should be harmed, as Xenophon relateth; and after this he gave them free leave to return home.
Ellicott's Commentary on Habakkuk 3:16
(10-18) All the verbs in these verses are misrendered as regards tense. (See note on 3-15.)
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Habakkuk 3:16
Verse 16. When I heard, my belly trembled] The prophet, having finished his account of the wonders done by Jehovah, in bringing their fathers from Egypt into the promised land, now returns to the desolate state of his countrymen, who are shortly to be led into captivity, and suffer the most grievous afflictions; and although he had a sure word of prophecy that they should be ultimately delivered, yet the thoughts of the evils they must previously endure filled his soul with terror and dismay; so that he wishes to be removed from earth before this tribulation should come, that his eyes might not behold the desolations of his country. When he (Nebuchadnezzar) cometh up unto the people, (the Jews,) he will invade them (overpower and carry them away captive) with his troops.
Barnes' Notes on Habakkuk 3:16
When I heard - , better, “I heard and ...” The prophet sums up, resuming that same declaration with which he had begun, “I heard, I was afraid.” Only now he expresses far more strongly both his awe
Whedon's Commentary on Habakkuk 3:16
16. When I heard — R.V. simply, “I heard.” The report of thee (Habakkuk 3:2); that is, the report of the wonderful manifestations of Jehovah in the hour of Israel’s distress (compare 3-15).
Sermons on Habakkuk 3:16
| Sermon | Description | |
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Gods People Are Hurting by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their personal struggles and the feeling of being overwhelmed. They mention the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he experie |
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The Greatness of God (Isaiah 6) - Part 3 by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the greatness of Christ and the impending judgment day. He describes a scene where the greatest creatures in e |
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If Revival Doesn't Come by Ronald Glass | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the prophet Habakkuk and his reaction to God's revelation of judgment. Habakkuk expresses his fear and physical distress upon understanding t |
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That They Have Great Effects on the Body, Is No Sign by Jonathan Edwards | Jonathan Edwards discusses the effects of affections on the body, emphasizing that all affections, whether spiritual or not, have some impact on the body due to the close connectio |
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Fear and Awe by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes the distinction between fleshly fear and reverential awe of God, urging believers to recognize the power of God's judgments rather than succumbing to anx |
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True and False Prophets - Part 2 by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker addresses a controversy within their fellowship involving a charismatic believer who had different expectations. The speaker emphasizes the importance o |
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General Session 1 W/ Pastor Cymbala by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and not personal opinions or dreams. He criticizes false prophets who are not inspired by God an |