Old Testament

Psalms 50:1

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

At a Glance

In this verse, the psalmist emphasizes the authority and power of God, referred to as 'The Mighty One.

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

The Mighty One, God, the LORD, has spoken and called the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting.

KJVKing James Version

The mighty God, even the LORD, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist emphasizes the authority and power of God, referred to as 'The Mighty One.' It highlights that God has spoken to all of creation, calling the earth from east to west, symbolizing His dominion over the entire world. The phrase 'from the rising of the sun to its setting' suggests that God's message and presence are universal and timeless, reaching every corner of the earth. This declaration serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active role in the world. It also sets the stage for the themes of judgment and worship that follow in the psalm, indicating that God is not only a creator but also a judge who calls people to account for their actions. The verse invites readers to recognize God's greatness and to respond to His call with reverence and obedience, acknowledging His rightful place as the supreme authority in their lives.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 50:1 to your life

This verse encourages us to acknowledge God's authority in our lives and the world around us. We should respond to His call by living in a way that honors Him, recognizing His presence in every aspect of our daily lives. Worship and obedience are essential responses to His greatness.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 50:1 teach about God's authority?

Psalms 50:1 emphasizes God's supreme authority by referring to Him as 'The Mighty One.' It illustrates that God speaks with power and commands the attention of all creation, symbolized by the earth being called from the rising to the setting sun. This highlights His dominion over the entire world and serves as a reminder of His role as both creator and judge.

How does Psalms 50:1 relate to worship?

This verse sets the stage for themes of worship by reminding us of God's greatness and sovereignty. It calls us to recognize His authority and respond with reverence and obedience. Worship is not just about singing or rituals; it's about acknowledging God's rightful place in our lives and living in a way that honors Him.

What does 'from the rising of the sun to its setting' mean?

The phrase 'from the rising of the sun to its setting' signifies the universality of God's call and presence. It indicates that God's message reaches every corner of the earth, emphasizing that His authority and sovereignty are not limited by geography or time. This reinforces the idea that all creation is under His dominion.

How can I apply Psalms 50:1 in my daily life?

You can apply Psalms 50:1 by consciously acknowledging God's authority in your life. This means making decisions that honor Him, being aware of His presence in your daily activities, and responding to His call through acts of worship and obedience. Living with this awareness can transform how you interact with the world and others.

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.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

Premium

Unlock the full Psalms summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

Verse 2 →