Mazmur 48:8-10

48:8 We heard about God’s mighty deeds, now we have seen them, ¹ 

in the city of the Lord, the invincible Warrior, ² 

in the city of our God.

God makes it permanently secure. ³  (Selah)

48:9 We reflect on your loyal love, O God,

within your temple.

48:10 The praise you receive as far away as the ends of the earth

is worthy of your reputation, O God. ⁴ 

You execute justice! ⁵ 

[48:8]  ¹ tn Heb “As we have heard, so we have seen.” The community had heard about God’s mighty deeds in the nation’s history. Having personally witnessed his saving power with their own eyes, they could now affirm that the tradition was not exaggerated or inaccurate.

[48:8]  ² tn Heb “the Lord of hosts.” The title “Lord of hosts” here pictures the Lord as a mighty warrior-king who leads armies into battle (see Pss 24:10; 46:7, 11).

[48:8]  ³ tn Or “God makes it secure forever.” The imperfect highlights the characteristic nature of the generalizing statement.

[48:10]  ⁴ tn Heb “like your name, O God, so [is] your praise to the ends of the earth.” Here “name” refers to God’s reputation and revealed character.

[48:10]  ⁵ tn Heb “your right hand is full of justice.” The “right hand” suggests activity and power.