Old Testament

Psalms 48:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Psalm 48:5, the verse describes a reaction to witnessing something awe-inspiring, likely referring to the grandeur of Jerusalem and God's presence there.

Author
David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written
Around 1000-500 BC
Genre
Poetry and worship
Original Audience
Worshipers of Israel
CBTClear Bible Translation

They saw it, and so they marveled; they were troubled and hurried away.

KJVKing James Version

They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Psalm 48:5, the verse describes a reaction to witnessing something awe-inspiring, likely referring to the grandeur of Jerusalem and God's presence there. The people who saw it were filled with amazement, indicating that they recognized the significance of what they were observing. However, this marvel also brought about a sense of fear or anxiety, leading them to flee quickly. This dual response of wonder and fear highlights the power of God and the impact of His presence. The verse serves as a reminder that encountering the divine can evoke strong emotions, prompting both admiration and a recognition of our own smallness in comparison to God's greatness. It illustrates how the sight of God's work can lead to a profound realization of His majesty and our need to respond appropriately, whether in worship or in humility.

How to apply Psalms 48:5 to your life

When we encounter God's work in our lives, we should respond with both awe and reverence. This verse encourages us to recognize the greatness of God and to approach Him with humility. Reflecting on His majesty can inspire us to deepen our faith and commitment to Him.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 48:5 mean?

Psalms 48:5 describes the reaction of people who witnessed something magnificent, likely the glory of Jerusalem and God's presence. Their amazement was mixed with fear, prompting them to leave quickly, highlighting the powerful impact of encountering the divine.

What is the significance of the phrase 'they marveled' in Psalms 48:5?

The phrase 'they marveled' indicates that the people were deeply impressed and awed by what they saw. This reaction emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God's work and the importance of recognizing His greatness.

What does 'they were troubled' mean in Psalms 48:5?

'They were troubled' suggests that the people felt fear or anxiety in response to the awe-inspiring sight. This reflects the profound effect that witnessing God's majesty can have on individuals.

How can we apply Psalms 48:5 in our lives?

We can apply Psalms 48:5 by recognizing and responding to God's work in our lives with awe and humility. This verse encourages us to appreciate God's greatness and to approach Him with reverence.

The Book of Psalms
Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

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