Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Psalms Chapter 48 mean?

This passage parallels ideas found in Psalms 44, 46 and 47. The city of Jerusalem is held up as a living example of God’s greatness. The writer notes that history—to that point—had established the city as a place fortified by the power of the Lord (Psalm 48:1–3).

During the reign of Jehoshaphat, several nations combined forces to attack Jerusalem. Through God’s miraculous intervention, the assault was thwarted without Israel needing to fight, at all (2 Chronicles 20). This psalm’s description of kings fleeing in panic may refer to that event. Symbolically, the enemy’s fear was as all-consuming as the pain of a woman giving birth. Likewise, mention of “ships of Tarshish” and “the east wind” appear to be symbolic notes describing God’s vast superiority to any forces which might attack Jerusalem (Psalm 48:4–9).

Those viewing the city in the psalmist’s time are encouraged to look at the intact walls, towers, and other defensive measures. These inspire the people living there—the “daughters of Judah”—to acknowledge God’s favor. This reputation spreads around the entire world, along with God’s glory. That the city is untouched hints at the failed siege of Sennacherib (2 Kings 19), which was routed by the Lord before any attack could be mounted. Just as prior generations passed along stories of God’s redemption, so too should those who hear the psalm plan to tell others about the great things God had done for Israel (Psalm 48:10–14).

Chapter Context
Like Psalm 47, this psalm celebrates the Lord’s deliverance of Jerusalem. This might refer to the defeat of Sennacherib (2 Kings 19) or the miraculous rout of an enemy coalition (2 Chronicles 20). The focus of the psalm is on Jerusalem as a living example of God’s love and power. This shares themes with Psalms 46 and 47. Phrasing in certain verses resembles text found in Isaiah (Isaiah 33:14, 18, 21, 22). The “Sons of Korah” appear to be descendants of those who survived God’s judgment during the exodus (Numbers 16:25–32; 26:9–11) and were especially connected to the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 9:19–21:).

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. Great is the Lord and greatly to be praisedin the city of our God!His holy mountain,

The city of Jerusalem serves as a symbol of God’s power and majesty. The city of Israel’s great God (Matthew 5:35) was located on Mount Zion (Psalm 2:6). David had seized Mount Zion from the Jebusites (2 Samuel 5:6–9; 2 Chronicles 11:4–7), but it was not “holy” until David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem and installed it there. Thus, Mount Zion became God’s holy dwelling (Psalm 99:9). Only the presence of a holy God makes a place holy. Even a spot in the desert was declared holy because God chose to be present there (Exodus 3:4–5).

The psalmist will soon refer to kings of other nations who flee from Jerusalem, rather than conquering it (Psalm 48:4–8). Commentators are divided over what historical event the psalm mentions, if any. Some assign this description to the end-times glory of Jerusalem during the reign of the Messiah. Others suggest a connection to incidents recorded in the Bible.

A possible inspiration for this psalm was the Lord’s overwhelming defeat of the Assyrian forces laying siege to Jerusalem. Although the attacking army was vast, the Lord was far greater. During the night, the angel of the Lord passed through the camp of the Assyrians and killed a terrifying number of them (2 Kings 19:35).

This passage may also reflect the defeat of enemies who came against Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20); these armies were defeated without Israel even needing to fight.

The “Sons of Korah” were likely a group of worshippers especially devoted to music. They would be descendants of survivors of judgment on Korah and others for rebelling against God (Numbers 16:25–32; 26:9–11).

Context Summary
Psalm 48:1–9 extols the Lord’s excellence and power. These verses establish Jerusalem, “the city of our God,” as a shining example of His greatness. Scholars suggest this passage may refer to God’s miraculous acts during the reign of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20), or to the defeat of the Assyrian army who attacked Hezekiah (2 Kings 19).

Verse 2. beautiful in elevation,is the joy of all the earth,Mount Zion, in the far north,the city of the great King.

This psalm uses Jerusalem as a living example of God’s greatness. “His holy mountain” (Psalm 48:1) is Zion. This term is used for more than one location in or around the city. The name “Mount Zion” is sometimes applied to the hill just south of old Jerusalem, and at other times to the temple mount. It’s likely the mention of Zion’s location “in the far north” refers to the position of the temple mount within ancient Jerusalem.

Jerusalem is said to be “beautiful in elevation,” using a Hebrew phrase word that has more to do with an advantageous position than extreme height. Jerusalem is located among a low mountain range which runs north and south; approaching from the east or west, it would appear to be situated “above” the traveler.

Prophetically, Jerusalem has brought joy to all the earth. Jesus died outside the city (Hebrews 13:12; Mark 15:20) to pay the penalty of sin and give eternal life to all who believe on Him as their Savior (John 3:16–18). Jesus will reign over all the earth from Jerusalem when He makes it His kingdom’s capital city (Psalm 2:6; Isaiah 65:17–19). People throughout the kingdom will invite one another to go to Jerusalem to learn the Lord’s ways (Isaiah 2:3).

Verse 3. Within her citadels Godhas made himself known as a fortress.

The residents of ancient Jerusalem knew they could trust in the Lord. He was the security even for those who lived in the city’s palaces. He proved He was their “fortress:” their protection. Psalm 9:9 assures the Lord’s people that “the LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” The same passage acknowledges that He has not forsaken those who seek Him (Psalm 9:10).

God certainly demonstrated His power to protect Jerusalem during incidents recorded in the Bible. He destroyed an Assyrian army that had laid siege to the city (2 Kings 19). He thwarted the combined forces of several nations who attacked the city (2 Chronicles 20) without Israel needing to fight at all. Those moments may have inspired this very psalm, including the descriptions of victory which follow (Psalm 48:4–9).

The Lord is just as much a place of assurance for Christians. Jesus promised, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father’s hand” (John 10:28–29). The security Jesus gives endures forever.

Verse 4. For behold, the kings assembled;they came on together.

The psalmist has held up Jerusalem as a real-world example of God’s formidable power and might (Psalm 48:1–3). Here begins a description of foreign nations coming together to attack the city, only to run away in fear (Psalm 48:5–7). Several moments in history are possible inspirations for this description.

A literal convergence of enemy kings and armies is depicted during the reign of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20). God caused those forces to destroy each other without Israel needing to fight, at all. Another possibility is when Sennacherib, the Assyrian, and his vast army along with subordinate kings (Isaiah 10:8) descended on Jerusalem and laid siege to it. His intent was to repeat prior victories by conquering Jerusalem (Isaiah 10:9–11). Yet his military was obliterated by the power of God (2 Kings 19).

At the close of Jesus’ kingdom rule on earth, nations and their leaders under the headship of the Devil will assemble around Jerusalem with the intent of destroying the city and its people. Revelation 20:9 relates: “And they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city.” Psalm 2:1–3 describes the same end-time event as an assault against the Lord and His Anointed, Jesus.

Verse 5. As soon as they saw it, they were astounded;they were in panic; they took to flight.

Those who attacked Jerusalem (Psalm 48:4), thinking they could conquer it, instead fled in terror. This continues a description of the holy city as an example of God’s power and might (Psalm 48:1–3).

An event commonly associated with this passage is the failed siege of Jerusalem by the Assyrian forces of Sennacherib (2 Kings 19). The victory began when Hezekiah, King of Judah, entered the temple (Isaiah 37:1). In distress, he sent a message to the prophet Isaiah requesting prayers (Isaiah 37:1–4). Isaiah responded by telling Hezekiah not to be afraid, because the Lord would deal with the Assyrians (Isaiah 37:5–7). Hezekiah later prayed over a threatening note he received from the Assyrians (Isaiah 37:14–20). The Lord answered Hezekiah’s prayer (2 Kings 19:35–37).

Another option is the defeat of a coalition which assembled to attack Jerusalem during the reign of Jehoshaphat. That combined force turned to infighting and self-destructed without Israel needing to fight, at all (2 Chronicles 20).

Verse 6. Trembling took hold of them there,anguish as of a woman in labor.

Here, the effects of fear on Jerusalem’s enemies is compared to the experience of a woman giving birth. Scripture isn’t clear about what event—if any—was the inspiration for this psalm. The main point is using Jerusalem as a living example of God’s glory (Psalm 48:1–3). However, recent phrases have referred to an assembly of kings, who are now fleeing in terror (Psalm 48:4–5).

This may be a reference to the miraculous rescue of Jerusalem during the reign of Jehoshaphat. Several enemy nations gathered to attack, but fell into an ambush and were driven away without Israel fighting, at all (2 Chronicles 20).

Another option is the failed siege on Jerusalem led by Sennacherib (2 Kings 19). Isaiah spoke about how God will “punish the speech of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and the boastful look in his eyes” (Isaiah 10:12). Sennacherib, King of Assyria, bragged he would capture Jerusalem, underestimating the Lord. God promised Sennacherib would not only be barred from Jerusalem, but that he would fail to so much as mount an actual attack (Isaiah 37:33). When Assyria’s army camped to prepare for battle, the Lord annihilated vast numbers of their soldiers. Those who remained panicked and fled. Sennacherib returned home to Nineveh quickly, but as he was worshiping in the house of his god Nisroch, his two sons murdered him (Isaiah 37:37–38).

Verse 7. By the east wind you shatteredthe ships of Tarshish.

This psalm uses Jerusalem as a real-world example of God’s miraculous power and glory (Psalm 48:1–3). That includes mention of enemies being dramatically defeated (Psalm 48:4–6).

The reference to “ships of Tarshish” might be entirely symbolic. Every language has familiar metaphors for strength and power. The Bible often refers to the “cedars of Lebanon” in such a context (Psalm 29:5; 92:12; Isaiah 2:13). The imagery of fine ships (Isaiah 2:16) being wrecked by an even more powerful wind speaks to the overwhelming power of God against Israel’s enemies. It’s unlikely that ships would be used in any meaningful assault on Jerusalem since it is far from the shore.

Familiar symbolism also appears in references to the east wind. It was notorious for causing sudden destruction. Job 27:21 refers to the east wind as carrying away a wicked rich man. Jonah 4:8 mentions that God appointed a scorching east wind to beat down on Jonah’s head. As a result, Jonah was faint. Ezekiel 27:25 portrays the ships of Tarshish as carrying cargo from many countries and cities. Addressing the ships, this verse says, “So you were filled and heavily laden in the heart of the seas.” However, tragedy struck. “Your rowers have brought you out into the high seas. The east wind has wrecked you in the heart of the seas” (Ezekiel 27:26).

The exact location of Tarshish is unknown. Bible geographers have speculated it was in Spain, Tunisia, or Phoenicia.

Verse 8. As we have heard, so have we seenin the city of the Lord of hosts,in the city of our God,which God will establish forever. Selah

The words of this verse appear as if spoken by travelers on their way to Jerusalem (Psalm 48:9). The psalm has praised God’s glory and power, using the city as a living example (Psalm 48:1–7). This included references to miraculous victories over attacking enemies. The psalmist depicts people observing the city, and thinking on these events, realizing how special the city is. Jerusalem is described here as “the city of the LORD of hosts.” This title for God implies His authority as the commander of heaven’s armies. He controls a great host of angels and fights for His people.

Likewise, the text recognizes that God owns Jerusalem, and has no intent of letting it be destroyed entirely. At the end of the tribulation, ungodly nations marshaled by Satan will encompass Jerusalem, but the city’s God will destroy with fire those who want to destroy the city (Revelation 20:7–9). Today, believers comprise part of the Lord’s Church. Like Jerusalem, the Church cannot be destroyed. Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).

The Hebrew term se’lāh suggests a pause or reflection.

Verse 9. We have thought on your steadfast love, O God,in the midst of your temple.

While praising God for His miraculous rescue of Jerusalem (Psalm 48:1–7), the psalmist speaks from the perspective of those visiting the city and seeing the temple (Psalm 48:8). The occasion for this praise might be the defeat of several armies who attacked Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20). Or it may be the miraculous obliteration of the Assyrian army led by Sennacherib (2 Kings 19). Either event would invoke the idea of God’s eternal love for His people.

This verse is one of many appearances of the Hebrew term chesed, which refers to a loyal, constant, enduring love (Exodus 34:6; Ruth 1:8; Psalm 33:18). The same term is sometimes rendered as “lovingkindness” or related terms. Addressing the people of Israel, the Lord affirms, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you” (Jeremiah 31:3).

Certainly, Israel did nothing to deserve God’s steadfast love. Even patriarchs such as Abraham and Jacob were unfaithful to Him at times. After the exodus from Egypt, their descendants sinned and continued to sin. As a result of Israel’s failure to observe the Sabbaths and her embracing idolatry, God disciplined her by taking her into captivity. Nevertheless, He still loved Israel and planned to restore her in her homeland (Jeremiah 29:11). Christians, too, live under the umbrella of God’s unfailing love (1 John 3:1), and should love Him in return (1 John 4:19).

Verse 10. As your name, O God,so your praise reaches to the ends of the earth.Your right hand is filled with righteousness.

This psalm has celebrated God’s glory and power, using the city of Jerusalem as a living example (Psalm 48:1–7). Scholars suggest this might be connected to real-world events. These include the defeat of Sennacherib (2 Kings 19) or the miraculous subversion of the attack against Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20). God’s righteousness is, in part, demonstrated in these responses to enemies of His people (Psalm 48:8–9).

God would be seen as unrighteous—unjust—if He allowed sin to go unpunished. Romans 3:10 declares that no one is righteous, and no one can be acceptable to God by performing religious deeds (Romans 3:20). However, God demonstrated that He is righteous by providing redemption for sinners. This was necessary to justify them through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21–26). When a person believes on Jesus Christ as Savior, he becomes the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21).

The psalmist describes both God’s name and His praise reaching the entire world. He sees the truth of God’s glory, and the Lord’s deserving of honor, as being acknowledged everywhere. As believers carry the good news throughout the world, God’s praise reaches to the ends of the earth. Someday in heaven, praise will ascend to Jesus, the Lamb of God, for who He is and for what He did to redeem sinners (Revelation 5:8–14).

Context Summary
Psalm 48:10–14 builds appropriately on what the people of Jerusalem had observed of the Lord’s almighty power. Their gratitude caused them to praise the Lord and to ponder Jerusalem’s greatness because of God’s presence.

Verse 11. Let Mount Zion be glad!Let the daughters of Judah rejoicebecause of your judgments!

This psalm holds up Jerusalem as an example of God’s glory (Psalm 48:1–3). “Mount Zion” is a term used for a few different aspects of the site on which Jerusalem is built. As such, references to Zion or Mount Zion are bywords for the city of Jerusalem. The people of the city are poetically called “daughters of Judah.” Jerusalem was in that tribe’s territory, and the unending line of kings through David was part of Judah (2 Samuel 7:12–13).

God’s “judgments” are reflected in His actions. This psalm may look back on events such as the miraculous failure of an attack during the reign of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20), or, perhaps on the annihilation of an Assyrian army attempting to lay siege to Jerusalem (2 Kings 19). These remarkable events were proof of God’s direct intervention on behalf of His people and the city from which their king reigned.

In his letter to Titus, the apostle Paul describes the believer’s hope of eternal life as having been promised by God. He underscores the certainty that this promise will be fulfilled because God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Every promise God gave to Israel regarding His plans for her will be fulfilled, because He cannot lie (Hebrews 6:13–20). Also, every promise He has given to Christians will be fulfilled because He cannot lie. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 1:20: “For all the promises of God find their Yes in [Jesus]. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.”

Verse 12. Walk about Zion, go around her,number her towers,

Perhaps the psalmist is addressing the travelers who reached Jerusalem and worshiped at the temple (Psalm 48:8–9). Or, this may be directed at the people of the city, poetically called “daughters of Judah” (Psalm 48:11). In either case, the writer points to the city’s defensive structures which are intact (Psalm 48:13). Despite threats from massive armies (2 Kings 19) and the combined efforts of many nations (2 Chronicles 20), Jerusalem was intact thanks to the power of God (Psalm 48:1–7). Isaiah 33:18 seems to be a taunt, asking, “Where is he who counted the towers?” This refers to the scouts of Sennacherib, king of the army that failed to besiege the city.

In the ancient world, walls and other defensive measures were crucial parts of a city’s existence. Years after the writing of this psalm, after Nehemiah led a post-exilic delegation back to Jerusalem, he and his workers finished rebuilding the city’s walls. Then, he formed two processions with choirs and musicians to inspect the wall by walking around on top of it. After seeing that the wall was strong, everyone rejoiced and offered sacrifices (Nehemiah 12:31–43).

Verse 13. consider well her ramparts,go through her citadels,that you may tell the next generation

The theme of this psalm has been God’s glory, exemplified in Jerusalem and the Lord’s miraculous preservation of the city (Psalm 48:1–11). The writer has noted the continued existence of Jerusalem’s walls and defensive towers (Psalm 48:12). The verb translated “consider” can also imply “to divide.” The idea is to regard the ramparts and citadels one by one. Attacks by various enemies had not succeeded (2 Kings 19; 2 Chronicles 20). This proof of the Lord’s prior work was to be passed down to children (Psalm 44:1–3) so Israel would always remember.

Though Jerusalem was well fortified, her strength did not ultimately lie in her physical walls; it was in the Lord God. The strong man Samson discovered that his own strength was no match for the Philistines, Arising from Delilah’s lap to battle the Philistines, he said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But “he did not know that the LORD had left him” (Judges 16:20). As a result, he became the Philistines’ captive. His power wasn’t in muscles or weapons, but in the Lord’s strength.

In his second letter to Timothy, a young pastor, the apostle Paul encouraged him to “be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1). Timothy’s ministry needed to be fortified not by his natural abilities but by the strength that rests in Jesus Christ. Jesus told His disciples that they could accomplish nothing apart from Him (John 15:5).

Verse 14. that this is God,our God forever and ever.He will guide us forever.

The psalmist wanted those who walked around Jerusalem to tell the next generation what they saw (Psalm 48:13). Past victories were proof the Lord was miraculously protecting the city (2 Kings 19; 2 Chronicles 20). These stories needed to be told to each age group (Psalm 44:1–3) so they would trust God’s plans. More importantly, so they would know to credit the Lord, not their own power, for any success they might have.

God had led the people of Israel safely through the desert by the shekinah glory cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). He had led them to victory in the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 7:7–9; 9:6–8; Joshua 12:1–6), and He had led them to establish Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 11:4–8).

Psalm 18:30 affirms that God’s way is perfect. God still leads His people. Christians can trust Him to guide them as they face important decisions (James 1:5–8). Proverbs 3:5–7 tells believers to resist the tendency to rely on their own wisdom but rather to trust God with every aspect of their lives, trusting Him to show them the best way to live (James 3:17–18).

End of Psalm 48

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