Psalms 48:10 (KJV)

What does Psalms 48:10 mean?

Psalms 48:10 says that God’s reputation and praise are known everywhere, reaching to the farthest parts of the earth, and that God’s actions are filled with righteousness. The verse highlights both the worldwide recognition of God’s greatness and the moral goodness shown in God’s power.

This verse is part of a song attributed to the sons of Korah, celebrating God’s protection of Jerusalem. The people are speaking to God, recognizing that just as God’s name (or reputation) is honored, so is God’s praise spread everywhere. The mention of God’s “right hand” being full of righteousness points to God’s just and fair actions, especially in defending and caring for the city.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 48:10

• "name" (שֵׁם, shem): This word refers to God’s reputation or character, not just a label. In this verse, it means that God’s fame is widespread and respected.
• "praise" (תְּהִלָּה, tehillah): This word means praise or songs of admiration. The verse connects God’s reputation directly to the praise given, suggesting that God is praised as widely as God is known.
• "ends" (קָצֶה, qatseh) and "earth" (אֶרֶץ, erets): Together, these words mean the farthest reaches of the world, emphasizing that God’s praise is not limited to one place or people.
• "right hand" (יָמִין, yamin): In Hebrew thought, the right hand often symbolizes strength or power. Here, it means that God’s powerful actions are always righteous.
• "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq): This word means justice or moral rightness. The verse stresses that God’s power is always used in just and fair ways.

Why Psalms 48:10 matters

• Psalms 48:10 clarifies that God’s praise is not just for Israel or Jerusalem, but is meant to reach all people everywhere, showing the universal scope of God’s reputation.
• The verse connects God’s power (“right hand”) with righteousness, reminding readers that God’s might is always exercised justly, not arbitrarily or unfairly.
• In the context of the psalm, this verse helps explain why the people trust and celebrate God’s protection: God’s actions are both powerful and morally good, making God worthy of praise across the whole earth.