Psalms 147:13 (KJV)

What does Psalms 147:13 mean?

Psalms 147:13 describes how God has made the city strong and secure by reinforcing its gates and has brought blessing to the children living inside. The verse highlights God’s protection and care for the people within the city.

The psalm is a song of praise, likely written after the return from exile, with the speaker addressing Jerusalem and its people. The verse uses the image of fortified gates to show safety and stability, while mentioning the children emphasizes the well-being and future of the community. The focus is on God’s active role in both physical security and family blessing.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:13

• "strengthened" (חָזַק, chazaq): This word means to make strong or firm. Here, it suggests that God Himself is the one making the city’s defenses reliable, not just human builders.
• "bars" (בְּרִיחַ, beriach): This refers to the metal or wooden bars that secure city gates. The detail points to real, practical security, not just a symbolic idea.
• "blessed" (בָּרַךְ, barakh): This word means to bestow favor or good things. The blessing is not just general well-wishing but a concrete act of God giving prosperity and well-being.
• "children" (בֵּן, ben): The word here means sons or children, highlighting the next generation. The verse stresses that God’s care extends to families and the future of the people.
• "within" (קֶרֶב, qerev): This word means "inside" or "in the midst." It shows that the blessing is not just on the city as a structure, but on the people living inside it.

Why Psalms 147:13 matters

• The verse clarifies that true security and blessing come from God, not just from physical defenses or human effort.
• By mentioning both the gates and the children, the verse connects the ideas of safety and ongoing life, showing God’s care for both the present and the future of the community.
• This verse fits into the larger psalm, which celebrates God’s power and kindness in rebuilding Jerusalem and caring for its people after hardship.