Old Testament
Psalms 48:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Mark well her bulwarks; consider her palaces, so that you may tell it to the generation following.
Compare translations
Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following.
What Psalms 48:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse encourages the reader to take a close look at the defenses and structures of a city, likely referring to Jerusalem. The term 'bulwarks' signifies strong walls or fortifications, while 'palaces' points to the grandeur of the city. The purpose of this observation is to inspire the current generation to appreciate and pass on the significance of these landmarks to future generations. It highlights the importance of remembering and sharing the history and strength of one's heritage, ensuring that the lessons and stories of the past are not forgotten. By understanding the city's defenses and beauty, one can recognize the protection and blessings that come from God, which should be celebrated and communicated to those who come after us. This verse serves as a reminder of the value of history and the responsibility to teach it to others, fostering a sense of identity and continuity among the people.
How to apply Psalms 48:13 to your life
We should take time to reflect on our own heritage and the lessons from our past. By sharing these stories and values with younger generations, we help them understand their identity and the importance of their roots. This practice fosters a sense of belonging and continuity in our communities.
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 48:13
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 48:13
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 48:13 mean?
Psalms 48:13 encourages people to observe the strong defenses and beautiful structures of a city, likely Jerusalem, and to pass on the significance of these landmarks to future generations. It emphasizes the importance of remembering and sharing one's heritage.
What is the significance of 'bulwarks' in Psalms 48:13?
In Psalms 48:13, 'bulwarks' refers to the strong walls or fortifications of a city, symbolizing protection and strength. This term highlights the importance of recognizing the defenses that safeguard a community.
What does 'palaces' refer to in Psalms 48:13?
The term 'palaces' in Psalms 48:13 points to the grandeur and beauty of the city, representing its cultural and historical significance. It signifies the importance of appreciating the beauty and heritage of one's surroundings.
What is the main message of Psalms 48:13?
The main message of Psalms 48:13 is to encourage reflection on the city's defenses and beauty, inspiring the current generation to share these insights with future generations. It underscores the value of history and the responsibility to teach it.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.