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