Psalms 48:8

KJV

¶ As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

As we have heard {H8085}{H8804)}, so have we seen {H7200}{H8804)} in the city {H5892} of the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, in the city {H5892} of our God {H430}: God {H430} will establish {H3559}{H8787)} it for {H5704} ever {H5769}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

We heard it, and now we see for ourselves in the city of ADONAI-Tzva'ot, in the city of our God. May God establish it forever. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

As we have heard, so we have seen in the city of the LORD of Hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish her forever. Selah

American Standard Version

As we have heard, so have we seen In the city of Jehovah of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 48:8 stands as a profound declaration of divine faithfulness and the tangible manifestation of God's protective power over His chosen city, Jerusalem. It encapsulates the awe and conviction of a people who have not only heard of God's mighty deeds but have also witnessed them firsthand, confirming His unwavering commitment to establish and secure His dwelling place eternally. This verse serves as a triumphant affirmation that God's promises are not mere words but are actively fulfilled in history, solidifying the trust of His people in His sovereign rule and enduring presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 48 is a "Song. A Psalm of the sons of Korah," a hymn of praise celebrating Mount Zion, Jerusalem, as the glorious dwelling place of God. The preceding verses (Psalms 48:1-7) vividly describe the city's beauty and impregnability, immediately followed by an account of a formidable confederacy of kings who gathered against Jerusalem. However, instead of conquering, they were struck with terror, seized with pain, and fled in disarray, likened to ships shattered by an east wind. This dramatic divine intervention sets the stage for verse 8, which acts as a powerful conclusion to this narrative segment, affirming that what was prophesied or heard about God's protective power over Zion has now been demonstrably seen. The "Selah" at the end of the verse prompts a pause for reflection on this profound truth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem, also known as Zion, held immense religious and political significance as the capital of Judah and the site of the Temple. It was considered the "city of God," a concept deeply rooted in the Davidic covenant where God promised to establish David's throne forever (see [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David")). Throughout its history, Jerusalem faced numerous threats from powerful empires. The most prominent historical event that aligns with the psalm's description of a miraculous deliverance is the Assyrian siege during the reign of King Hezekiah, where God intervened directly to destroy the Assyrian army (as recounted in [2 Kings 19:35](/2_kings/19-35 "2 Kings 19:35 - God Delivers Jerusalem from Assyria") and [Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Angel of the LORD Strikes the Assyrians")). Such an event would have profoundly reinforced the belief that Jerusalem was indeed the "city of the LORD of hosts," protected by divine power.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 48:8 powerfully contributes to several key themes within the broader book of Psalms and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Veracity and Faithfulness**, demonstrating that God's word and promises are utterly reliable and are tangibly fulfilled in history. The transition from "heard" to "seen" is a testament to God's active involvement in the world. Secondly, it highlights **God's Sovereignty and Presence in Zion**, emphasizing Jerusalem's unique status not merely as an earthly capital but as God's chosen dwelling place, where His power and authority are uniquely manifested. The title "LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) reinforces His supreme command over all armies, both heavenly and earthly. Lastly, the verse points to the **Eternal Establishment of God's Kingdom**, asserting that God will "establish it for ever." While the physical city of Jerusalem has faced destruction, this promise speaks to its enduring spiritual significance and foreshadows the ultimate, eternal establishment of God's kingdom, culminating in the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descends") where God's presence will be perpetually with His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heard (Hebrew, _šāmaʿ'_):** This verb signifies not merely the act of perceiving sound, but often implies understanding, receiving, and obeying. In this context, it refers to the oral traditions, prophecies, and historical accounts of God's past interventions and promises concerning Jerusalem's security and His faithfulness. It speaks to the foundational knowledge and faith passed down through generations.
* **Seen (Hebrew, _rāʾāh'_):** This verb denotes direct, personal observation and experience. The juxtaposition with "heard" emphasizes the tangible, empirical confirmation of what was previously known by report or faith. It transforms abstract knowledge into concrete reality, solidifying belief through witnessed divine action.
* **Establish (Hebrew, _kûn'_):** This verb means to set up, make firm, confirm, or prepare. Here, it conveys the idea of divine permanence and security. God's act of "establishing" Jerusalem forever implies an enduring foundation, a stability that transcends temporal threats and human efforts, rooted solely in His sovereign will and power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As we have heard, so have we seen":** This opening clause expresses a profound confirmation of divine truth. It articulates the experience of the psalmist and the community: the historical accounts, prophecies, and promises of God's protective power, which they had received through tradition and teaching ("heard"), have now been undeniably validated by a direct, observable event ("seen"). This creates a powerful testimony to God's faithfulness and the reliability of His word.
* **"in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God":** This phrase identifies the specific location where this divine validation occurred—Jerusalem. The double designation emphasizes its unique sacred status. "The LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) portrays God as the supreme commander of all heavenly and earthly armies, highlighting His omnipotence and ability to defend. "Our God" underscores the covenantal relationship and intimate ownership God has over His people and their capital, affirming His personal commitment to their protection.
* **"God will establish it for ever. Selah.":** This concluding declaration is a statement of confident future expectation, grounded in the recent past experience. The witnessed deliverance is not a one-time anomaly but a demonstration of God's enduring purpose to secure Jerusalem permanently. "For ever" points to the eternal nature of God's commitment, transcending the immediate historical context to encompass His ultimate eschatological plan for His kingdom. "Selah" functions as a musical or liturgical instruction, prompting the audience to pause, reflect, and meditate deeply on the profound truth just uttered.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 48:8 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Parallelism** is evident in the symmetrical structure of "As we have heard, so have we seen," creating a clear cause-and-effect or confirmation relationship. This is reinforced by the **Repetition** of "in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God," which serves to emphasize Jerusalem's unique divine ownership and sacred status, driving home the point that this is no ordinary city but God's very own. The phrase "God will establish it for ever" contains an element of **Hyperbole**, as the physical city has indeed faced destruction throughout history. However, this hyperbole points to a deeper theological truth: the spiritual and eschatological permanence of God's kingdom and His ultimate dwelling place, which transcends the physical limitations of Jerusalem. The entire verse functions as a **Testimony**, a personal and communal declaration of witnessed divine power, designed to inspire faith and worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 48:8 stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering faithfulness of God, bridging the gap between divine promise and historical reality. It underscores the biblical principle that God's word is not merely theoretical but is active and effective, consistently fulfilling what He declares. The experience of "hearing" about God's power and then "seeing" its manifestation instills profound confidence in His character and His sovereign control over all circumstances. This verse affirms God's unique relationship with His people and His chosen dwelling place, demonstrating His commitment to defend and preserve what is His. It invites believers to trust that the God who acted decisively in the past continues to establish His purposes in the present and for eternity, providing an unshakeable foundation for faith.

* [Isaiah 40:8](/isaiah/40-8 "Isaiah 40:8 - The Word of God Endures Forever")
* [Matthew 24:35](/matthew/24-35 "Matthew 24:35 - Heaven and Earth Shall Pass Away, But My Words Shall Not Pass Away")
* [Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - A Kingdom Which Cannot Be Moved")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 48:8 offers a profound source of encouragement and a powerful call to faith for believers today. In a world often characterized by instability, uncertainty, and the apparent triumph of evil, this verse reminds us that the God we worship is not a distant deity but an active, faithful, and sovereign Lord. What we have "heard" through the Scriptures—His promises of presence, protection, provision, and ultimate victory—we are invited to "see" manifested in our lives and in the unfolding of His redemptive plan. This verse challenges us to cultivate a posture of expectant faith, trusting that God will establish His purposes, even when circumstances seem to contradict His word. It encourages us to find our ultimate security not in earthly institutions or human strength, but in the unshakeable foundation of God Himself, the One who establishes His kingdom forever.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "heard" truths about God's character and promises have you personally "seen" confirmed in your life or in the world around you?**
* **How does the title "LORD of hosts" (God of armies) impact your understanding of God's ability to protect and establish His people today?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God to "establish" something that feels uncertain or threatened?**
* **How does the "Selah" at the end of the verse invite you to pause and deeply consider God's enduring faithfulness and sovereignty?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "Selah" at the end of Psalms 48:8?**

Answer: "Selah" is a Hebrew term found frequently in the Psalms and Habakkuk, believed to be a musical or liturgical notation. While its precise meaning is debated, common interpretations suggest it signifies a pause for reflection, a musical interlude, or an instruction to lift up voices or instruments. In the context of [Psalms 48:8](/psalms/48-8 "Psalms 48:8 - As We Have Heard, So Have We Seen"), "Selah" serves as a powerful prompt for the reader or worshiper to stop and meditate deeply on the profound truth just declared: that God's promises are tangibly fulfilled and He will establish His city forever. It encourages a moment of solemn contemplation, allowing the weight of God's faithfulness and eternal sovereignty to fully sink in and resonate with the heart.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Psalms 48:8 speaks of the historical and enduring establishment of Jerusalem, its ultimate fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ and His eternal kingdom. The "city of the LORD of hosts" finds its true and perfect reality not in a physical earthly city, but in Christ Himself and the spiritual Jerusalem, the Church. Jesus declared that He would build His church, and the gates of hell would not prevail against it ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church")). He is the true Temple, the dwelling place of God among humanity ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). What was "heard" in the Old Testament prophecies of a coming King and an eternal kingdom is "seen" in the person and work of Jesus, who established a new covenant through His sacrifice and resurrection ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Jesus, the Mediator of a Better Covenant")). He is the ultimate "establishment" of God's presence and reign, guaranteeing an eternal, unshakeable kingdom for all who believe ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness into the Kingdom of His Dear Son")). The New Testament culminates with the vision of the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth"), where God's dwelling is finally and eternally with His people, a reality secured by the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who reigns forever and ever ([Revelation 22:3-5](/revelation/22-3-5 "Revelation 22:3-5 - God and the Lamb are the Temple")). Thus, the promise of eternal establishment in Psalms 48:8 points to the ultimate and perfect security found in Christ, the foundation and head of the eternal City of God.

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 87:5

And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.

Psalms 44:1

¶ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, Maschil. We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, [what] work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.

Psalms 44:2

[How] thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, and plantedst them; [how] thou didst afflict the people, and cast them out.

Micah 4:1

¶ But in the last days it shall come to pass, [that] the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it.

Psalms 78:3

Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us.

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:

Matthew 16:18

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.