Definition and Symbolism:
In biblical literature, "mighty waters" often symbolize overwhelming forces, chaos, or the power of God. These waters can represent both physical bodies of water, such as seas and rivers, and metaphorical challenges or divine interventions. The imagery of mighty waters is used to convey God's majesty, judgment, and deliverance.

Biblical References:

1. Creation and Sovereignty:
In the creation narrative, God demonstrates His sovereignty over the waters. Genesis 1:2 describes the Spirit of God hovering over the waters, indicating His control over the chaotic primordial seas. This theme of divine authority over mighty waters is echoed throughout Scripture.

2. The Flood:
The account of Noah's flood in Genesis 6-9 is a prime example of mighty waters as an instrument of God's judgment. The floodwaters cover the earth, purging it of wickedness, while also serving as a means of salvation for Noah and his family. Genesis 7:18 states, "The waters prevailed and increased greatly on the earth, and the ark floated on the surface of the waters."

3. The Exodus:
The parting of the Red Sea is another significant event involving mighty waters. In Exodus 14, God parts the sea to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, demonstrating His power and faithfulness. Exodus 14:21 records, "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided."

4. Psalms and Poetry:
The Psalms frequently use the imagery of mighty waters to express distress and divine intervention. Psalm 93:4 declares, "Mightier than the roar of many waters—the mighty breakers of the sea—the LORD on high is mighty." This verse emphasizes God's supremacy over even the most formidable natural forces.

5. Prophetic Literature:
Prophets often use the imagery of mighty waters to describe nations or armies. In Isaiah 17:12 , the tumult of nations is likened to the roaring of mighty waters: "Oh, the raging of many nations—they rage like the raging sea! Oh, the uproar of the peoples—they roar like the roaring of mighty waters."

6. New Testament:
In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrates His authority over the waters, calming the storm in Mark 4:39 : "Then Jesus got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. 'Silence!' He commanded. 'Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm." This miracle underscores His divine power and control over creation.

Theological Significance:
Mighty waters in the Bible serve as a powerful metaphor for God's omnipotence and His ability to bring order out of chaos. They remind believers of God's capacity to protect, judge, and deliver His people. The imagery also calls for trust in God's sovereignty, even amidst life's turbulent and overwhelming circumstances.