Question 1

What does Psalms 147:15 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 147:15 says that God sends out His command across the earth, and His word moves quickly to accomplish what He intends. The verse highlights how God’s instructions are not slow or limited—they reach everywhere and act without delay. This psalm is a song of praise, likely written after the return from exile, celebrating God’s power and care for His people. Here, the psalmist is speaking to the gathered community, emphasizing that God’s authority is not just local but stretches over the whole world, and that nothing can hinder what God decides to do.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:15

Accepted Answer

"Commandment" (מִצְוָה, mitsvah, H565) here refers to God’s authoritative order or instruction. It is not just a suggestion but something that must be carried out, showing God’s control over creation. "Word" (דָּבָר, davar, H1697) often means more than just speech; it can mean a purposeful message or decree. In this context, it stresses that God’s spoken will is powerful and effective. "Runneth" (רוּץ, ruts, H7323) gives the sense of speed and urgency. God’s word is pictured as running swiftly, not delayed or hindered by obstacles. "Swiftly" (מְהֵרָה, meherah, H4120) adds emphasis to the speed, underlining that God’s actions happen without hesitation or slowness.

Question 3

Why Psalms 147:15 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse corrects any idea that God’s actions are slow or limited by distance; it stresses that God’s will is effective everywhere and immediately. The verse fits into the wider psalm, which praises God for both His universal power and His personal care for Israel, showing that God’s greatness benefits all creation. It highlights the reliability of God’s promises—what God says will happen, happens quickly and surely, which would have reassured people who had experienced delay or hardship.

Psalms 147:15 (KJV)