Habakkuk 3:9
“Thy bow was made quite naked, according to the oaths of the tribes, even thy word. Selah. Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God bares His bow for battle in keeping with His sworn promises, splitting the earth with rivers.
What Does Habakkuk 3:9 Mean?
God is depicted as the Divine Warrior readying for battle. His bow is uncovered, stripped for action, and this is done "according to the oaths" He swore — His warfare flows from His own faithful word and covenant promises. He cleaves the earth so that rivers break forth, His power reshaping the land. "Selah" again invites reflection.
What stands out is that God's mighty acts are tied to His sworn word. He does not act capriciously; His power serves His promises. The bow is drawn because God keeps His oaths to His people. This is deeply reassuring: behind every display of God's strength lies His unbreakable faithfulness. The same God who splits the earth has bound Himself by His word to save those He has covenanted with. His might and His faithfulness are never separated.