For a downloadable PDF, click below
Verses 1-4, see session 5
In this verse, Habakkuk speaks in more general terms, referring to the "pestilence" and "burning coals" of judgment. While less specific, these symbols echo the catastrophic events depicted in the tribulation. They serve as stark reminders of the severity of God's judgment, and the dire consequences that befall those who defy His will.
In the context of Habakkuk 3:5, the Hebrew word translated as "before" is לְפָנָיו (l'fanav), which can carry both spatial and temporal connotations:
Like many prophetic Psalms, this one is written in the past tense, although it almost certainly refers to a future event. Regardless of whether you accept the eschatological interpretation, the events that Habakkuk celebrates concern God's impending judgment on Judah.
Verse 6, if taken literally to any extent whatsoever, must lead to an eschatological interpretation. If the eschatological sense is rejected, the question then arises: can this be linked to God's judgment through the Chaldeans? It would be highly unlikely. Phrases like "measure the earth," "defeat the nations," "scatter the mountains," and "bow the hills" are clearly metaphorical. If they are intended to depict the eventual downfall of the Chaldean/Babylonian empire, it would be such an extreme exaggeration, potentially earning the top spot in the hyperbole category of biblical interpretations. Even attempting to link this to the great flood of Noah's day or the scattering of nations during the Babel era requires an imagination that exceeds acceptable limits in biblical interpretation. To me, it's almost undeniable that this Psalm, at least in its opening verses, depicts the future Second Coming
Some might interpret the trembling of the tents and curtains in Verse 7 as a reflection of God's past actions. However, in line with the futurist interpretation that has been discussed so far, it seems more plausible to view this as a symbolic representation of God's impending judgment. As God arises and rushes into action, even distant enemies are thrown into affliction, signifying the far-reaching impact of His judgment.
Upon God taking a stand (v. 6), the very fabric of the nations trembles in anticipation of His judgement (v. 7). The tents of the distant lands are afflicted, as if in expectation of a storm, and the curtains -- perhaps a metaphor for their defenses or their false sense of security -- tremble.
In the book of Acts, Stephen claims to see the Son of God standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55-56). These words incite the Jewish audience to stone him. The significance of this is likely tied to the concept of God standing, as mentioned in Habakkuk 3:6. In biblical imagery, God standing often signifies His readiness to execute judgment. Therefore, Stephen's proclamation indirectly suggested imminent divine judgment, an idea that was offensive to his audience considering their current opposition to Christ.
Habakkuk asks a question that personifies the rivers and the sea. This rhetorical question implies that the Lord's judgment extends well beyond the nations, like Cushan and Midian, reaching even the natural world. The personification of the rivers and the sea depicts them as entities that God interacts with directly, a representation that underscores the all-encompassing nature of God's authority and judgment.