Psalms 48
Read Psalms 48 (WEB)+
1Great is Yahweh, and greatly to be praised, in the city of our God, in his holy mountain. 2Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion, on the north sides, the city of the great King. 3God has shown himself in her citadels as a refuge. 4For, behold, the kings assembled themselves, they passed by together. 5They saw it, then they were amazed. They were dismayed. They hurried away. 6Trembling took hold of them there, pain, as of a woman in travail. 7With the east wind, you break the ships of Tarshish. 8As we have heard, so we have seen, in the city of Yahweh of Armies, in the city of our God. God will establish it forever. Selah. 9We have thought about your loving kindness, God, in the middle of your temple. 10As is your name, God, so is your praise to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is full of righteousness. 11Let Mount Zion be glad! Let the daughters of Judah rejoice, Because of your judgments. 12Walk about Zion, and go around her. Number its towers. 13Mark well her bulwarks. Consider her palaces, that you may tell it to the next generation. 14For this God is our God forever and ever. He will be our guide even to death.
World English Bible (public domain)
“Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God! His holy mountain,”
Psalms 48:1
Summary
Psalm 48 is a hymn celebrating the beauty and strength of Mount Zion, the city of God. The psalmist extols Zion as the ultimate stronghold, a place of joy for the whole earth. The city is depicted as impregnable, and it evokes awe among kings and foreign nations who see its splendor and recognize God's presence within. The security of Zion is emphasized as a testament to God's faithful love and protection. Worshipers are encouraged to reflect on God's steadfast love and protection when they walk about Zion, observing and recounting its defenses. The chapter closes with a call to acknowledge God who guides His people forever.
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