Old Testament
Psalms 48:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD is great and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, on his holy mountain.
Compare translations
Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness.
What Psalms 48:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the greatness of the LORD, highlighting His worthiness of praise. It specifically mentions the 'city of our God' and 'his holy mountain,' which can be understood as a reference to Jerusalem, a significant place for worship and divine presence. The phrase 'greatly to be praised' indicates that the LORD deserves not just acknowledgment but enthusiastic and heartfelt worship. The verse invites believers to recognize God's majesty and holiness, encouraging them to celebrate His attributes and the special relationship He has with His people. This acknowledgment of God's greatness serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the importance of worship in the life of believers, reinforcing the idea that God is central to their identity and community.
How to apply Psalms 48:1 to your life
In our daily lives, we should take time to acknowledge and praise God for His greatness. This can be done through prayer, worship, and reflection on His attributes. Recognizing His holiness can inspire us to live in a way that honors Him and strengthens our community of faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 48:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 48:1
Related Bible verses
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 48:1 mean by 'the city of our God'?
In Psalms 48:1, 'the city of our God' refers to Jerusalem, which is considered a holy city in the Bible. It symbolizes God's presence among His people and serves as a central place for worship and community. The verse emphasizes that this city is significant because it is where God's greatness is acknowledged and celebrated.
How can I apply the message of Psalms 48:1 in my life?
To apply the message of Psalms 48:1, take time to recognize and praise God's greatness in your daily life. This can be through prayer, singing, or reflecting on His attributes. Additionally, consider how you can honor God in your actions and relationships, fostering a sense of community and worship among fellow believers.
Why is worship important according to Psalms 48:1?
Worship is important according to Psalms 48:1 because it acknowledges God's greatness and holiness. The verse highlights that God deserves enthusiastic praise, which reinforces our relationship with Him and strengthens our faith community. Worship serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and our identity as His people.
What does 'greatly to be praised' imply in this verse?
The phrase 'greatly to be praised' in Psalms 48:1 implies that God is not only worthy of acknowledgment but also deserves heartfelt and enthusiastic worship. It encourages believers to express their admiration and gratitude towards God, recognizing His majesty and the blessings He provides in their lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.