Psalms 147:5 (KJV)

What does Psalms 147:5 mean?

Psalms 147:5 says that the Lord is great, has immense power, and possesses limitless understanding. The verse highlights God’s unmatched greatness and wisdom, showing that there are no boundaries to what He knows or can do.

The psalmist is speaking to the gathered people of Israel, encouraging them to praise God. This verse comes in a section where God’s care for creation and His people is being celebrated. The focus is on God’s vastness—not just in strength, but in wisdom and understanding—reminding the listener that God’s abilities and knowledge are far beyond human limits.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 147:5

• “Great” (גָּדוֹל, gadol, H1419) is used to describe the Lord’s size or importance, emphasizing that God is far above all others in every way.
• “Power” (כֹּחַ, koach, H3581) refers to might or strength, underlining that God’s ability to act is not limited or weak.
• “Understanding” (תְּבוּנָה, tebunah, H8394) points to insight or wisdom, suggesting that God’s knowledge is not just broad but also deep and perceptive.
• “Infinite” (אֵין מִסְפָּר, en mispar, H4557) literally means “without number,” stressing that God’s understanding cannot be counted or measured.

Why Psalms 147:5 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that God’s knowledge or power has limits; it stresses that His wisdom and strength are beyond human calculation.
• By placing this statement in the middle of a psalm about God’s care for creation and His people, it connects God’s greatness directly to His ability to help and sustain.
• The verse helps the reader see that God’s understanding is not just vast in quantity, but also perfect in quality—He never overlooks or misunderstands anything.