Psalms 48:13

KJV

Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell [it] to the generation following.

KJV (with Strong's)

Mark {H7896}{H8798)} ye well {H3820} her bulwarks {H2430}, consider {H6448}{H8761)} her palaces {H759}; that ye may tell {H5608}{H8762)} it to the generation {H1755} following {H314}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Note its ramparts, pass through its citadels, so that you can tell generations to come

Berean Standard Bible

consider her ramparts, tour her citadels, that you may tell the next generation.

American Standard Version

Mark ye well her bulwarks; Consider her palaces: That ye may tell it to the generation following.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 48:13 issues a direct command to the people of God: meticulously observe and contemplate the formidable defenses and magnificent structures of Jerusalem, the holy city. This careful examination of its strength and beauty serves a profound theological purpose, enabling them to faithfully recount God's powerful protection and enduring presence to future generations. The verse underscores the vital importance of remembering, preserving, and transmitting the testimony of God's unwavering faithfulness, as evidenced in His safeguarding of His chosen dwelling place, ensuring that His mighty deeds are perpetually proclaimed and never forgotten.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 48 is a triumphant hymn of praise, celebrating the unparalleled greatness of God and His unique relationship with Mount Zion, the city of Jerusalem. The psalm opens by declaring God "great and greatly to be praised" within His holy city, describing Jerusalem's beauty and its elevation as a source of joy for the entire earth. It vividly recounts a past divine intervention where a coalition of kings gathered against Jerusalem, only to be struck with terror and flee in disarray, demonstrating God's overwhelming power and unwavering protection over His dwelling place. Following this account of divine victory and security, verses 12-14 serve as a concluding exhortation. The people are urged to walk around Zion, count its towers, and specifically, to "mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces" in verse 13. This command is not merely for aesthetic appreciation or military assessment but for the explicit purpose of preserving and transmitting the profound truth of God's protective presence to successive generations, culminating in the declaration that "this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death" [Psalm 48:14](/psalms/48-14 "Psalm 48:14 - God Our Eternal Guide").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem, often synonymous with Zion, held unparalleled significance in ancient Israel as the divinely chosen city where God had established His temple and, by extension, His tangible presence among His people. Its physical defenses—walls, towers, and gates—were absolutely crucial for survival in the tumultuous geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. However, the psalm elevates Jerusalem's security beyond mere human engineering, attributing its impregnability primarily to God's divine guardianship. Culturally, the transmission of historical, theological, and covenantal truths from one generation to the next was a foundational and sacred practice in Israelite society. Commands like those found in [Deuteronomy 6:7](/deuteronomy/6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:7 - Teaching Children Diligently") and [Psalm 78:4](/psalms/78-4 "Psalm 78:4 - Telling Future Generations of God's Deeds") highlight the sacred duty to educate children and grandchildren about God's mighty acts and covenant faithfulness. Thus, observing Jerusalem's physical strength was a tangible, visible way to grasp the spiritual reality of God's protective hand, providing concrete evidence to pass down through the generations.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within Psalm 48 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **God's Presence and Protection**, portraying Jerusalem's physical strength as a direct manifestation of God's unwavering defense of His holy city. The "bulwarks" and "palaces" symbolize the tangible security and majesty that emanate from His presence, reinforcing the concept of God as a [refuge and fortress](/psalms/91-2 "Psalm 91:2 - God as a Refuge and Fortress") for His people. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Security of Zion**, presenting Jerusalem as an impregnable city, not solely due to its physical defenses but primarily because God Himself is its ultimate defender. This divine security serves as a profound source of comfort and confidence for believers. Lastly, and most crucially, the command to "mark ye well" and "consider" is intrinsically linked to the theme of **Remembering and Transmitting God's Works**. The observation of God's faithfulness is not an end in itself but a means to the vital task of passing this knowledge to "the generation following," emphasizing the paramount importance of spiritual heritage and the ongoing mandate to teach future generations about God's mighty deeds and enduring faithfulness, echoing the call to remember God's covenant found in [Psalm 105:5](/psalms/105-5 "Psalm 105:5 - Remembering God's Wonderful Works").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mark (Hebrew, _shîyth_):** From H7896, meaning "to place (in a very wide application); apply, appoint, array, bring, consider, lay (up), let alone, [idiom] look, make, mark, put (on), [phrase] regard, set, shew, be stayed, [idiom] take." In this context, "mark ye well" (with H3820, _lêb_ "heart" or "mind") implies a deliberate, intentional setting of one's mind or attention upon something, a careful and thorough observation, not merely a casual glance. It denotes a deep, reflective engagement with the object of observation.
* **Bulwarks (Hebrew, _chêylâh_):** From H2430, a feminine form of חַיִל, meaning "an intrenchment; bulwark." This term refers to the outer wall, rampart, or defensive earthwork of a fortress. It denotes the most formidable and essential part of a city's defenses, designed to withstand siege and protect its inhabitants. The use of this word emphasizes the strength, impregnability, and protective capability of Jerusalem's fortifications.
* **Palaces (Hebrew, _ʼarmôwn_):** From H759, derived from an unused root meaning "to be elevated," signifying "a citadel (from its height); castle, palace." This word conveys both the strength and the splendor of Jerusalem's grand structures. It speaks to the city's majesty, importance, and royal significance, not just its defensive capabilities, suggesting that even its most magnificent buildings were divinely protected and stood as a testament to God's glory and the security He provided.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Mark ye well her bulwarks":** This is a powerful imperative command, urging the people to meticulously and intentionally observe the defensive structures of Jerusalem. The phrase "mark ye well" (literally "set your heart upon") implies a thorough, detailed examination, almost like a military inspection, to fully appreciate the strength and integrity of the city's fortifications. It calls for a deep understanding of how these defenses functioned and their profound significance as a testament to God's protective hand.
* **"consider her palaces":** Another imperative, this command complements the first, directing attention to the grand, royal, and often fortified buildings within the city. "Consider" (from H6448, _pâçag_, meaning "to cut up, contemplate") suggests a contemplative reflection, not just a superficial observation. It invites the viewer to ponder the majesty, beauty, and inherent security of these structures, recognizing them as symbols of God's blessing, presence, and unwavering guardianship over His dwelling place.
* **"that ye may tell [it] to the generation following":** This crucial clause reveals the ultimate purpose behind the commands to "mark" and "consider." The careful, contemplative observation of Jerusalem's strength and splendor is not for personal satisfaction or mere historical record alone, but for the vital task of transmitting this knowledge and testimony to future generations. It underscores the profound intergenerational responsibility to pass on the story of God's faithfulness, power, and protection, ensuring that the legacy of His mighty deeds and enduring covenant love endures through time and is never forgotten.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 48:13 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The predominant device is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in the direct commands "Mark ye well," "consider," and "tell." These commands are not suggestions but urgent calls to action, emphasizing the critical importance and sacred duty of observing and transmitting God's works. **Parallelism** is evident in the pairing of "bulwarks" and "palaces," which, while distinct in their specific architectural reference, function complementarily to describe the comprehensive strength, beauty, and divine protection of Jerusalem. This creates a fuller, more robust image of the city's impregnable nature. **Symbolism** is also central, as the physical "bulwarks" and "palaces" transcend their literal meaning to symbolize God's impenetrable protection, majestic presence, and the enduring security He provides for His people. Finally, the verse is deeply **Didactic** in its explicit statement of purpose: "that ye may tell [it] to the generation following." This clear instructional intent highlights the psalm's role in fostering intergenerational faith and ensuring the continuity of God's story within the community of believers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 48:13 transcends a mere architectural appreciation of ancient Jerusalem, serving as a profound theological statement about God's enduring faithfulness and the imperative of spiritual heritage. The physical security of Zion, evidenced by its formidable bulwarks and magnificent palaces, stands as a tangible testament to the invisible, yet ever-present, protective hand of God. This verse reminds us that God's character is revealed not only in His grand acts of salvation but also in His steadfast preservation of His people and their dwelling place. For believers today, while the earthly Jerusalem holds historical significance, the spiritual reality points to the Church as the new "Zion" – the city of God, built upon the foundation of Christ, against which the gates of hell shall not prevail. The command to "mark well" and "consider" becomes a call to diligently observe God's works in our own lives, in the history of the Church, and in the world, recognizing His consistent provision, protection, and faithfulness. This observation is not for private contemplation but for public declaration, fulfilling the timeless biblical mandate to pass on the truth of God's character and deeds to those who come after us, ensuring that the legacy of faith continues through discipleship and evangelism.

* [Psalms 91:2](/psalms/91-2 "Psalm 91:2 - God as My Refuge and My Fortress")
* [Deuteronomy 6:7](/deuteronomy/6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:7 - Teaching Your Children Diligently")
* [Psalms 78:4](/psalms/78-4 "Psalm 78:4 - Telling Future Generations of God's Praises")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 48:13 offers a timeless challenge for contemporary believers: to become attentive observers of God's faithfulness and diligent transmitters of His truth. In a world that often dismisses or forgets the past, this verse calls us to deliberately "mark well" and "consider" the evidences of God's goodness, power, and protection in our lives, in our communities, and throughout redemptive history. This isn't about blind faith, but about a faith informed by careful observation of God's consistent character and mighty works. Just as the Israelites were to survey Jerusalem's defenses as a testament to God's guardianship, we are to reflect on how God has been our bulwark and palace—our refuge, strength, and source of beauty—in times of trial and triumph. This deep personal conviction then fuels the second, equally vital command: to "tell it to the generation following." Our faith is not meant to terminate with us; it is a sacred trust to be passed on. This involves sharing our personal testimonies, teaching sound doctrine, modeling Christ-like living, and actively discipling those who come after us, ensuring that the story of God's unwavering love and power continues to resonate through the ages, building a legacy of faith that transcends generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "bulwarks" and "palaces" in your life or in the history of your community serve as tangible evidence of God's faithfulness and protection?**
* **How intentionally do you "mark well" and "consider" God's works in your daily life? What practices help you do this?**
* **In what practical ways are you "telling it to the generation following" about God's character and deeds?**
* **What stories of God's faithfulness do you feel most compelled to share with those younger in faith or those who do not yet know Him?**

### FAQ
**Is this verse only about the physical city of Jerusalem, or does it have a broader meaning for believers today?**

Answer: While Psalms 48:13 directly refers to the physical city of Jerusalem and its defenses, its meaning extends far beyond its literal context for believers today. Theologically, Jerusalem, or Zion, serves as a powerful symbol of God's dwelling place, His people, and His protective presence. For Christians, the "city of God" is ultimately fulfilled in the Church, the spiritual body of Christ, and ultimately in the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city. Therefore, the command to "mark well her bulwarks" encourages us to observe and appreciate the spiritual security and majesty of God's kingdom and His Church, which is built on the [foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone"). The "telling to the generation following" then becomes a timeless mandate for discipleship and evangelism, ensuring that the good news of God's faithfulness and salvation in Christ is passed down through the ages.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 48:13, with its focus on the impregnable security of Zion and the mandate to transmit this truth, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His Church. While ancient Jerusalem stood as a testament to God's protective presence, it was but a shadow of the true, eternal city of God. Christ Himself is the ultimate "bulwark" and "palace" for His people, the [rock upon which His Church is built](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church"), against which the very [gates of Hades will not prevail](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades"). The security once symbolized by physical walls is now found in the spiritual reality of being "in Christ," where believers are [citizens with God's people and members of God's household](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Citizens with God's People"), built into a [holy temple in the Lord](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21 - A Holy Temple in the Lord"). The command to "mark well" and "consider" Jerusalem's strength transforms into an invitation to behold the glory, power, and faithfulness of God revealed in Jesus—His perfect life, atoning death, and victorious resurrection. This divine narrative, far surpassing any earthly defense, is the ultimate story to be "told to the generation following." The Great Commission, to [go and make disciples of all nations](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission"), is the New Testament embodiment of this ancient mandate, ensuring that the testimony of God's saving work in Christ is proclaimed to every generation until He returns, establishing the [new Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem") where God will dwell with His people forever, a city whose builder and maker is God Himself.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 71:18

Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto [this] generation, [and] thy power to every one [that] is to come.

Psalms 122:7

Peace be within thy walls, [and] prosperity within thy palaces.

Psalms 78:4

We will not hide [them] from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.

Psalms 78:6

That the generation to come might know [them, even] the children [which] should be born; [who] should arise and declare [them] to their children:

Deuteronomy 11:19

And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

Isaiah 58:12

And [they that shall be] of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.

Acts 15:14

Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.