Old Testament
Psalms 47:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For the LORD Most High is awe-inspiring; he is a great King over all the earth.
Compare translations
For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth.
What Psalms 47:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the greatness and majesty of God, referred to as the 'LORD Most High.' The term 'awe-inspiring' or 'terrible' highlights the reverence and fear that God commands due to His supreme power and authority. As the 'great King over all the earth,' God is sovereign over all nations and peoples, indicating that His rule is universal and absolute. This verse invites believers to recognize God's authority and to respond with respect and worship. It serves as a reminder that God is not just a local deity but the ultimate ruler of the entire world, deserving of our awe and devotion. The contrast between the translations reflects different nuances of God's character—His ability to instill fear and reverence, as well as His greatness and majesty. Overall, this verse calls us to acknowledge God's position as the highest authority and to live in a way that honors Him as our King.
How to apply Psalms 47:2 to your life
Recognizing God's greatness should inspire us to live with humility and respect. We can cultivate a sense of awe in our daily lives by acknowledging His authority in our decisions and actions. This awareness can lead to deeper worship and a more profound relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 47:2
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 47:2 mean by 'LORD Most High'?
The term 'LORD Most High' refers to God's supreme authority and power over all creation. It emphasizes that He is not just a local deity but the ultimate ruler of the universe. This title invites believers to recognize His greatness and sovereignty, encouraging a response of reverence and worship.
Why does the KJV use the word 'terrible' in Psalms 47:2?
In the KJV, the word 'terrible' reflects a sense of awe and fear associated with God's majesty. It signifies that God's power can inspire both reverence and fear, highlighting His holiness and the seriousness of His authority. This contrasts with more modern translations that use 'awe-inspiring,' which conveys a similar sense of respect without the connotation of fear.
How can I apply the message of Psalms 47:2 in my daily life?
To apply the message of Psalms 47:2, start by acknowledging God's authority in your decisions and actions. Cultivate a sense of awe by reflecting on His greatness and sovereignty. This can lead to a more profound worship experience and a deeper relationship with God, inspiring you to live humbly and respectfully in all areas of your life.
What themes are highlighted in Psalms 47:2?
Psalms 47:2 highlights several key themes, including God's Majesty, Sovereignty, Worship, Reverence, and Universal Authority. These themes remind believers of God's supreme power and the importance of recognizing Him as the ultimate ruler, deserving of our respect and devotion.
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