Psalms 147:13

For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; he hath blessed thy children within thee.

For he hath strengthened {H2388} the bars {H1280} of thy gates {H8179}; he hath blessed {H1288} thy children {H1121} within {H7130} thee.

For he strengthens the bars of your gates, he blesses your children within you,

For He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses the children within you.

For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; He hath blessed thy children within thee.

Commentary on Psalms 147:13

Psalms 147:13, a verse rich with imagery and assurance, highlights God's dual provision for His people: unwavering security and abundant blessing. This verse is part of a larger psalm of praise that exalts the Lord for His mighty acts in creation and His particular care for Israel, His chosen nation.

Context

Psalm 147 is a hymn of thanksgiving, likely composed after the return of the exiles to Jerusalem, celebrating the rebuilding and restoration of the city. The psalm opens with a call to praise God for His greatness and His compassionate care for the brokenhearted (Psalm 147:3). It then shifts to focus on God's specific acts of provision for Jerusalem, including gathering the outcasts of Israel and blessing its inhabitants. The strengthening of gates and blessing of children directly reflects the restoration of the city and its people after a period of desolation and exile. This context underscores the themes of divine restoration and covenant faithfulness.

Key Themes

  • Divine Protection and Security: The phrase "he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates" vividly portrays God as the ultimate protector. In ancient times, city gates and their bars were crucial for defense against enemies. God's strengthening of these bars signifies His active role in safeguarding His people, ensuring their physical and national security. This speaks to a deeper spiritual truth: God is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1), providing unassailable safety to those who trust in Him.
  • Abundant Blessing and Prosperity: "He hath blessed thy children within thee" points to the prosperity and well-being of the inhabitants. This blessing encompasses not just physical sustenance, but also peace, growth, and the flourishing of families within the community. It signifies divine favor upon the next generation, ensuring continuity and prosperity. This aspect of blessing often includes fruitfulness and success in various endeavors, as seen in the covenant promises to Israel (Deuteronomy 28:4).
  • God's Faithfulness to His Covenant: The psalm emphasizes God's unique relationship with Israel, providing for them in ways He does not for other nations (Psalm 147:19-20). This verse is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, demonstrating His active involvement in the welfare of His people.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "strengthened," chazaq (חִזַּק), means to be strong, firm, or courageous. It implies making something secure and unassailable, suggesting a powerful and decisive act of fortification. The "bars" (b'riḥei) refer to the heavy bolts used to secure city gates, emphasizing the completeness of the defense. The term "blessed" (berach) signifies divine favor, leading to prosperity, fruitfulness, and well-being, often with the connotation of kneeling in worship or receiving a divine pronouncement of favor.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 147:13 offers profound comfort and encouragement. It reminds us that God is actively involved in our lives, providing both security and blessing.

  • Trust in God's Protection: In a world filled with uncertainties, we can find peace knowing that our ultimate security comes from God. He is our fortress against spiritual attacks and provides strength in times of vulnerability.
  • Embrace God's Blessings: This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the blessings God bestows upon us and our families. It prompts prayer for the well-being and spiritual growth of our children and future generations.
  • Praise for His Faithfulness: Just as the psalmist praised God for His restoration of Jerusalem, we are called to praise Him for His consistent faithfulness in our lives, acknowledging His provision and protection.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereign care, offering both a historical testament to His work for Israel and a timeless truth for all who trust in Him.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 128:3

    Thy wife [shall be] as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.

  • Psalms 128:6

    Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, [and] peace upon Israel.

  • Psalms 115:14

    The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.

  • Psalms 115:15

    Ye [are] blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.

  • Isaiah 44:3

    For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:

  • Isaiah 44:5

    One shall say, I [am] the LORD'S; and another shall call [himself] by the name of Jacob; and another shall subscribe [with] his hand unto the LORD, and surname [himself] by the name of Israel.

  • Jeremiah 30:19

    And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.

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