Psalm 48 13

Psalm 48:13 kjv

Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following.

Psalm 48:13 nkjv

Mark well her bulwarks; Consider her palaces; That you may tell it to the generation following.

Psalm 48:13 niv

consider well her ramparts, view her citadels, that you may tell of them to the next generation.

Psalm 48:13 esv

consider well her ramparts, go through her citadels, that you may tell the next generation

Psalm 48:13 nlt

Take note of the fortified walls,
and tour all the citadels,
that you may describe them
to future generations.

Psalm 48 verses

Psalm 48 13 Meaning

Psalm 48:13 is an exhortation to meticulously observe and appreciate the fortifications and significant structures of Jerusalem (Zion), recognizing them not merely as human constructs but as demonstrations of God's protective power and steadfast presence. The ultimate purpose of this close inspection is to ensure that the testimony of God's mighty deeds and unwavering defense of His dwelling place is accurately and faithfully transmitted to future generations, securing a legacy of faith and trust in the Lord.

Psalm 48 13 Context

Psalm 48 is a powerful "Song of Zion," celebrating the greatness of God and His unique relationship with the city of Jerusalem. The preceding verses vividly describe the overwhelming defeat of a coalition of kings who advanced against the city, attributing their sudden terror and rout directly to God's intervention (Ps 48:4-7). This deliverance cements Jerusalem's reputation as God's chosen dwelling place, beautifully designed and divinely protected. Verse 13, therefore, comes as a direct instruction to those who have witnessed or heard of these miraculous acts. It transitions from awe at God's glory manifested in the city's defense (vv. 9-11) to an active participation in remembering and relaying this truth. The historical backdrop for such a psalm could be a significant deliverance like Sennacherib's siege during the reign of Hezekiah (2 Ki 19; Isa 37), which powerfully demonstrated God's miraculous preservation of Jerusalem, making the command to observe its resilience highly relevant for preserving the collective memory of God's faithfulness.

Psalm 48 13 Word analysis

• Mark (ס֭וֹלּוּ - sōllū): This Hebrew word is a Qal imperative, meaning "lift up," "heap up," or "make a highway." In this context, it is best understood as "to observe closely," "to consider carefully with elevation." It implies not just a casual glance, but an elevated, purposeful attention, like a surveying of the landscape, to fully grasp what is being seen. It's an active, intentional viewing.
• ye well: Not a distinct word in the Hebrew but inherent in the intensity and intention implied by the imperative sōllū. The sense is to "observe thoroughly" or "with careful attention."
• her: Refers to Zion/Jerusalem, the city celebrated throughout the psalm.
• bulwarks (חֵילָהּ - ḥêlāh): From the root ḥayil, meaning "strength," "fortification," "rampart," "wall," or "defensive wall." These refer to the outer protective structures, the military fortifications designed to withstand siege. The word signifies both strength and security derived from these structures.
• consider (שָׁעֲר֣וּ - ša‘arū): This is also a Qal imperative. The root ša‘ar means "to measure," "to estimate," "to appraise," "to calculate," or "to gaze upon." It suggests a more analytical and intellectual process than merely "marking." It's an invitation to go beyond the surface, to deeply reflect upon the meaning and significance of what is observed, contemplating the design and resilience.
• palaces (אַרְמְנוֹתֶיהָ - ’armᵊnōtehā): From ’armōn, referring to a "citadel," "palace," or "fortress." These are the inner, prominent, often royal or stately buildings within the city. While the bulwarks signify defense, the palaces symbolize majesty, stability, and habitation, especially of royalty—implicitly, of God's presence as King in Zion.
• that ye may tell it (לְמַ֨עַן תְּסַפְּר֥וּ - ləma‘an təsappərū): This phrase (ləma‘an) indicates purpose ("in order that," "so that") followed by the verb "to tell" or "to recount" (təsappərū), implying a comprehensive and detailed narrative. The careful observation is directly tied to the accurate and compelling transmission of information.
• to the generation following (לְד֥וֹר אַחֲרֽוֹן - ləḏôr ’aḥărôn): Literally "to the last generation" or "to a future generation." It emphasizes the long-term, intergenerational nature of this mandate. The truth of God's mighty acts in Jerusalem is not to be lost but continuously shared across time, ensuring spiritual continuity.

Words-group analysis:

• Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces: This dual command signifies a holistic examination. "Bulwarks" represent external defense, human effort in construction, but divinely empowered protection. "Palaces" signify internal majesty, the city's inherent greatness, and where the King dwells. The paired verbs "mark well" (observe) and "consider" (analyze) compel a deep understanding of Zion's resilience, its secure status, and inherent glory. This thoroughness is not mere curiosity but theological appreciation.
• that ye may tell it to the generation following: This phrase unveils the imperative and transgenerational purpose. The detailed observation and contemplation of God's defense of Jerusalem are not for individual edification alone. They form the basis for a narrative—a testimony—that must be preserved and transmitted. This underscores the crucial responsibility of each generation to convey the faithfulness of God and the significance of His dwelling place to those who come after them, ensuring a continuing legacy of faith and trust in God's mighty acts.

Psalm 48 13 Bonus section

• Polemics: This instruction implicitly serves as a counter-narrative to the prevailing beliefs of pagan nations. While other cities relied solely on their military strength or the supposed favor of their numerous deities, Jerusalem's true security, as seen in the recent deliverance mentioned earlier in the Psalm, came from the One True God, YHWH. The physical structures were impressive, but they were secondary to God's divine protection. This call to observe reminds the people that their hope and security are distinct from the unstable reliance of other nations.
• Prophetic and Typological Significance: While referring to literal Jerusalem, in Christian thought, Zion often functions as a type or shadow of the Church and ultimately, the New Jerusalem (Heb 12:22; Rev 21:2). Thus, the call to "mark well her bulwarks, consider her palaces" can extend metaphorically to understanding and testifying to the divine security, eternal beauty, and unwavering foundation of God's spiritual kingdom (the Church), built not with human hands but by Christ himself, against which "the gates of Hades will not overcome" (Matt 16:18). This testimony of the Church's resilience and enduring nature, founded on Christ, is also meant to be passed down through the ages.
• A Call to Discernment: The twin imperatives ("mark" and "consider") invite believers to develop a discerning eye, not just for grand, miraculous events, but for the constant, steadfast evidence of God's presence and provision in the ordinary structures of life and faith. It implies a deep contemplative spirituality that sees God's hand in His creation and His dwelling with His people.

Psalm 48 13 Commentary

Psalm 48:13 provides a profound theological instruction disguised as an architectural tour. It calls for more than just sightseeing; it demands a mindful, deliberate observation of Jerusalem’s fortifications and grand structures. This isn't about marveling at human engineering, but rather discerning the hand of God upholding and dwelling within these visible signs of stability. The "bulwarks" speak to the impenetrable defense provided by God against enemies, and the "palaces" symbolize the splendor and secure presence of God's royal rule within His chosen city. The verse implies that the very endurance and majesty of Jerusalem are a testament to God's power and faithfulness. The essential purpose for this careful study is pedagogical: to furnish concrete evidence of God's unwavering character for instruction to "the generation following." This command emphasizes the perpetual nature of God's covenant with His people and the necessity for believers to preserve and transmit divine truth and experiences of God’s intervention, lest His works and character be forgotten. It challenges every believer to identify and articulate the manifestations of God’s glory and faithfulness in their own experience and surroundings, making these truths known to those who will carry the legacy forward.