Psalms 48:5
They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away.
Psalms 48:5
Verse 5 describes a reaction to what the kings saw: they “saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away.” The sight of Zion’s glory and God’s sovereignty provokes awe, fear, and a hurried retreat among the powerful. The reaction highlights the reality that divine majesty intimidates human arrogance and prompts a recognition of something larger and more enduring than earthly power. The psalm’s overall movement from exaltation to fear mirrors the human response to encountering the divine presence—worship, humility, and perhaps urgency to reconsider one’s life in light of God’s reign.
Theological themes include the fear of the Lord and the destabilizing effect of divine glory on human plans. The event foretells a universal awakening to God’s sovereignty, where even the mighty must reckon with their limits. It also foreshadows eschatological scenes where “every knee shall bow” before the King. The verse reinforces that God’s majesty has real implications for human behavior and decisions.
Today, this can serve as a mirror for our own reactions to God’s holiness. When confronted with truth about God, do we marvel, hesitate, or retreat? Practically, invite moments of reverent pause in worship or devotions to reflect on God’s greatness and our place before Him. In leadership or decision-making, this verse can remind us to seek God’s perspective before acting, acknowledging the potential to “hasten away” from pride or self-sufficiency. Use this as a cue to cultivate humility, dependence on God, and a posture of worship that shapes how you respond to challenges or confrontations with truth.
Cross-References: Psalm 2:11; Isaiah 6:5; Revelation 19:5; Habakkuk 3:16