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Joel 2:11

And the LORD shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?

Joel 2:11 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Joel in the Old Testament paints a vivid picture of the power and might of the Lord. The verse indicates that the Lord will issue a powerful command to his army, which is described as great and strong. It emphasizes that the Lord is not just a passive observer but an active enforcer of his will. The verse also highlights the coming of the "day of the Lord," which is portrayed as a day of great magnitude and terror. It conveys the idea that this day will be so overwhelming that no one will be able to withstand its force. The verse serves as a reminder of the immense power and authority of the Lord, and the inevitability of the coming judgment day. It is a call to all to recognize and submit to the sovereignty of God, who will ultimately execute his word with great strength and decisiveness.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it speaks to the power and authority of the Lord. The imagery of the Lord uttering his voice before his army and executing his word with strength emphasizes His sovereignty and control over all things. The phrase "the day of the Lord is great and very terrible" suggests a time of divine judgment and justice, where the Lord's power will be fully revealed. The word studies in this verse can provide further insight into the meaning behind the text. For example, examining the Hebrew word for "utter" can reveal nuances of the Lord's communication with his people. Similarly, studying the word for "terrible" can shed light on the awe-inspiring and fearsome nature of the Lord's day. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can deepen our understanding of the profound significance of this verse and its implications for our faith.

Joel 2:11 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Jehovah uttereth his voice before his army; for his camp is very great; for he is strong that executeth his word; for the day of Jehovah is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?

World English Bible

Yahweh thunders his voice before his army; for his forces are very great; for he is strong who obeys his command; for the day of Yahweh is great and very awesome, and who can endure it?

Douay-Rheims

And the Lord hath uttered his voice before the face of his army: for his armies are exceedingly great, for they are strong, and execute his word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible: and who can stand it?

Geneva Bible (1599)

And the Lord shall vtter his voyce before his hoste: for his hoste is very great: for he is strog that doeth his word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible, and who can abide it?