Psalms 83:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Keep not thou silence, O God: hold not thy peace, and be not still, O God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist calls on God to break His silence and intervene urgently.
The Context of Psalms 83:1
Opening petition in a psalm of national distress.
What Does Psalms 83:1 Mean?
The plea opens with intense urgency. The psalmist recognizes God's power to act and begs Him not to remain distant or unresponsive. The repetition of the request—silence, peace, stillness—emphasizes the desperation of the moment.
Silence from God in a time of crisis feels like abandonment. The prayer assumes that God both hears and can respond with action. This opening sets the stage for what follows: a crisis so severe that the psalmist needs God's active intervention, not passive allowance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 83:1
What does Psalms 83:1 mean?
The psalmist calls on God to break His silence and intervene urgently.
What is the context of Psalms 83:1?
Opening petition in a psalm of national distress.