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Bible Chapter Summary

Psalms 48 Summary

Zion, God's city of refuge and refuge

The psalmist extols the greatness of the LORD and Mount Zion, which is beautiful and the joy of the whole earth as the city of the great King. God is known in Zion's palaces as a refuge, and when kings were assembled and saw the city, they marveled and hastened away in fear and pain like a woman in travail. God breaks the ships of Tarshish with an east wind, and the people meditate upon God's lovingkindness in the temple, knowing that He will establish the city forever and be their guide even unto death.

Key themes

Zion's beautyGod's protectionEnemy defeatEternal establishmentDivine guidance

Key verses

Psalms 48:1-2

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness.

Psalms 48:5-7

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

Psalms 48:8

As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.

Psalms 48:14

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.

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