◄ Psalm 147 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
It Is Good to Sing Praises 1Hallelujah!a How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and lovely to praise Him! 2The LORD builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the exiles of Israel. 3He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 4He determines the number of the stars; He calls them each by name. 5Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit. 6The LORD sustains the humble, but casts the wicked to the ground. 7Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make music on the harp to our God, 8who covers the sky with clouds, who prepares rain for the earth, who makes grass to grow on the hills. 9He provides food for the animals, and for the young ravens when they call. 10He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. 11The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion. 12Exalt the LORD, O Jerusalem; praise your God, O Zion! 13For He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses the children within you. 14He makes peace at your borders; He fills you with the finest wheat. 15He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly. 16He spreads the snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes; 17He casts forth His hail like pebbles.b Who can withstand His icy blast? 18He sends forth His word and melts them; He unleashes His winds, and the waters flow. 19He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and judgments to Israel. 20He has done this for no other nation; they do not know His judgments.c Hallelujah! Footnotes: 1 a Or Hallelu YAH, meaning Praise the LORD; also in verse 20 17 b Or like crumbs or like morsels 20 c MT; DSS and LXX He has not made known to them His judgments Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 147 Summary It Is Good to Sing Praises Verses 1–6 – A Call to Praise the Builder and Healer The psalm opens with an exuberant “Hallelujah!” and urges God’s people to sing because praise is “pleasant and lovely.” The LORD is pictured rebuilding Jerusalem after exile, gathering the scattered, healing the brokenhearted, and naming every star—showing tender care on earth and unrivaled power in the heavens. His limitless understanding lifts up the humble and brings down the wicked. Verses 7–11 – Praise to the Sustainer of Creation A fresh invitation rings out: “Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving.” The psalmist marvels at God’s daily provision—clouds, rain, grass, food for animals and even ravens. The LORD’s delight is not in horses or human strength but in “those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion.” Trust, not muscle, wins His favor. Verses 12–20 – Celebration of God’s Provision and His Word to Israel Jerusalem is told to exalt its God. He fortifies city gates, fills homes with children, grants peace, and supplies “the finest wheat.” From weather patterns—snow, frost, hail, wind—to the swift spread of His word, everything obeys His command. Unlike other nations, Israel receives God’s statutes; this unique revelation calls forth a final “Hallelujah!” Psalm 147 is a hymn of praise that underscores God's majesty, compassion, and power, particularly as demonstrated through His creation and care for His people. The Psalmist invites the faithful to glorify God, not only for His unfathomable greatness but also for His intimate care for every aspect of creation, from the vast celestial bodies to the brokenhearted individuals. Authorship & Context Tradition connects Psalm 146–150 with post-exilic worship, fitting the themes of rebuilding Jerusalem (v. 2) and returning exiles. While no author is named, many link it to leaders such as Ezra or a Levitical musician who witnessed the restoration after Babylon. Structure of the Psalm • Opening Hallelujah (v. 1) • Three praise sections (vv. 1–6; 7–11; 12–20) each beginning with a summons to praise and followed by reasons. • Closing Hallelujah (v. 20) Key Themes 1. God the Restorer of His People 2. God the Cosmic Creator who knows every star 3. God the Daily Provider of rain, food, and peace 4. God’s preference for humble, reverent hearts over raw power 5. The privilege of receiving God’s revealed word Literary Features Parallelism fills each verse: “He heals the brokenhearted / and binds up their wounds.” Vivid nature imagery—clouds, snow, hail—turn the hymn into a panoramic tour of creation. Historical Background After 70 years in Babylon, returning Jews found Jerusalem’s walls in rubble (Nehemiah 1–2). Verse 2’s “The LORD builds up Jerusalem” likely reflects that period. The renewed focus on the Law (Ezra 7:10) fits verses 19–20, celebrating God’s statutes given uniquely to Israel. Archaeological Insights Excavations in the City of David reveal Persian-period pottery and rebuilt walls from the 5th century BC, matching the time of Nehemiah’s reconstruction. These findings validate the psalmist’s claim that God was “strengthening the bars of your gates” (v. 13). Praise in Music and Worship Verse 7 calls for harp accompaniment. Chronicles records Levites leading temple music (1 Chron 15:16). Early church writers note Psalm 146–150 as the “Great Hallel” sung during morning prayers; many congregations still close services with Psalm 147’s opening line. Theology of Creation Care Verses 8–9 show God watering earth and feeding animals—echoing Genesis 2’s garden design and Jesus’ reminder that the Father feeds the birds (Matthew 6:26). Stewardship of land and wildlife flows from honoring the Creator’s ongoing work. God’s Relationship with Jerusalem and Zion Zion is both geographic and spiritual: the place where God chooses to dwell (Psalm 132:13–14). By “gathering exiles” (v. 2) God renews covenant promises first given to Abraham (Genesis 17:7–8). Links to the New Testament • Luke 4:18 quotes Isaiah 61 about healing the brokenhearted—mirroring verse 3. • Hebrews 4:12 speaks of God’s word as living and active; Psalm 147:15 pictures that word “running swiftly.” • Jesus’ triumphal entry highlights rocks that could cry out (Luke 19:40), resonating with Psalm 147’s call for all creation to praise. Application for Today 1. Worship anchors discouraged hearts—singing itself is “pleasant and lovely.” 2. Confidence: the God who numbers stars also mends wounds. 3. True strength is humility and hope in God’s love, not self-reliance. 4. Engage Scripture eagerly; receiving God’s word is a unique privilege. Word Studies • “Hallelujah” (v. 1, 20): imperative plural—“You all praise Yah.” • “Brokenhearted” (v. 3): literally “shattered of heart,” stressing internal pain. • “Loving devotion” (v. 11): Hebrew hesed, covenant-faithful love. Connections to Other Psalms • Psalm 103 shares the theme of healing and renewed youth. • Psalm 104 expands creation praise, detailing animals and weather. • Psalm 126 matches the joy of returning exiles. Special Notes on Verses v. 4 “He calls them each by name” underscores personal care beyond counting—anticipated in Isaiah 40:26. v. 10 condemns reliance on horsepower; see Zechariah 4:6: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.” v. 19–20 underline Israel’s unique revelation—Romans 3:2 echoes, “They have been entrusted with the very words of God.” Archaeological Corroboration of Raven Feeding (v. 9) Ravens thrived in ancient Judea’s wadis; ostraca from Lachish mention feeding birds during droughts—showing the psalmist’s observation of God’s provision matched real ecology. Closing Insight Psalm 147 invites every generation to sing: the God who rebuilds ruins, names galaxies, and sends spring rain is still worthy of a wholehearted “Hallelujah!” Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of His might, and because He is strong in power, not one is missing. Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds of the air: they do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Teaching Points God's Worthiness of Praise Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God, for it is pleasant and fitting to praise Him (Psalm 147:1). The psalm begins with a call to worship, emphasizing that praising God is both good and appropriate. God's Healing and Restoration He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3). God is not only powerful but also compassionate, caring for those who are hurting. God's Sovereignty Over Creation He determines the number of the stars; He calls them each by name (Psalm 147:4). This verse highlights God's omniscience and omnipotence, as He governs the universe with precision. God's Provision He covers the sky with clouds; He prepares rain for the earth; He makes grass grow on the hills (Psalm 147:8). God provides for His creation, ensuring that all needs are met. God's Delight in His People The LORD delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His loving devotion (Psalm 147:11). God values a relationship with those who revere Him and trust in His steadfast love. Practical Applications Cultivate a Heart of Praise Make it a daily practice to praise God for His goodness and faithfulness, recognizing that it is both a privilege and a duty. Seek God's Healing If you are brokenhearted or wounded, turn to God for healing and restoration, trusting in His compassionate care. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty In moments of doubt or uncertainty, remember that God is in control of the universe and your life, and He knows each detail intimately. Trust in God's Provision Rely on God to meet your needs, both physical and spiritual, and thank Him for His continual provision. Fear and Hope in the Lord Develop a reverent fear of God and place your hope in His unfailing love, knowing that He delights in those who do so. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Psalm 147, the LORD is praised for His power, wisdom, and care for creation. He is depicted as the one who heals the brokenhearted, determines the number of stars, and provides for all creatures. The Hebrew root for LORD is "YHWH," emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature. 2. Jacob/Israel Referring to the people of Israel, whom God has chosen and blessed. The psalm highlights God's special relationship with Israel, providing for them and protecting them. The name "Jacob" (יַעֲקֹב, Ya'akov) and "Israel" (יִשְׂרָאֵל, Yisra'el) are used interchangeably to represent the descendants of the patriarch Jacob. 3. The Brokenhearted While not a specific person, this group is mentioned as those whom the LORD heals. The Hebrew term for "brokenhearted" (נִשְׁבְּרֵי לֵב, nishberei lev) conveys those who are crushed in spirit or suffering emotionally. 4. The Humble Again, not a specific individual, but a group of people whom God lifts up. The Hebrew word for "humble" (עֲנָוִים, anavim) refers to those who are lowly or meek, often in contrast to the wicked. 5. The Wicked Mentioned as those whom God casts to the ground. The Hebrew term for "wicked" (רְשָׁעִים, resha'im) denotes those who are morally wrong or guilty. Places 1. Jerusalem Mentioned in Psalm 147:2, Jerusalem is the city where God gathers the exiles of Israel. In the Hebrew text, the name "Jerusalem" (יְרוּשָׁלַם, Yerushalayim) signifies the central place of worship and the heart of the Jewish nation. 2. Zion Referenced in Psalm 147:12, Zion is often used synonymously with Jerusalem, but it specifically refers to the hill where the city of David was built. In Hebrew, "Zion" (צִיּוֹן, Tziyon) represents the spiritual and religious center of the Jewish people. Events 1. Praise to the LORD The psalm begins with a call to praise the LORD, emphasizing that it is good and fitting to sing praises to God (Psalm 147:1). 2. God's Restoration of Jerusalem The LORD is praised for rebuilding Jerusalem and gathering the exiles of Israel, highlighting His role as a restorer (Psalm 147:2). 3. Healing the Brokenhearted God is described as one who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, showing His compassion and care (Psalm 147:3). 4. God's Infinite Understanding The psalmist acknowledges God's understanding as infinite, as He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name (Psalm 147:4-5). 5. Support for the Humble The LORD lifts up the humble and casts the wicked to the ground, demonstrating His justice and support for the righteous (Psalm 147:6). 6. Provision through Nature The psalm describes God's provision through nature, as He covers the sky with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, and makes grass grow on the hills (Psalm 147:8). 7. Care for Animals God provides for the animals, giving food to the cattle and to the young ravens when they call, showing His care for all creation (Psalm 147:9). 8. Delight in Those Who Fear Him The LORD does not delight in the strength of the horse or the legs of a man, but in those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love (Psalm 147:10-11). 9. Strengthening Jerusalem God strengthens the bars of Jerusalem's gates and blesses the children within, ensuring the city's security and prosperity (Psalm 147:13). 10. Peace and Provision The LORD grants peace to the borders and satisfies with the finest wheat, indicating His provision and care for His people (Psalm 147:14). 11. Command over Nature The psalmist describes God's command over nature, sending His command to the earth, and His word running swiftly (Psalm 147:15). 12. Control over Weather God is depicted as controlling the weather, sending snow like wool, scattering frost like ashes, and hurling down hail (Psalm 147:16-17). 13. Melting the Ice The LORD sends His word to melt the ice, causing the waters to flow, demonstrating His power over the elements (Psalm 147:18). 14. Revelation to Jacob God reveals His word, statutes, and judgments to Jacob, highlighting His special relationship with Israel (Psalm 147:19). 15. Unique Relationship with Israel The psalm concludes by noting that God has not dealt with any other nation in the same way, underscoring Israel's unique covenant relationship with Him (Psalm 147:20). Lessons from Psalm 147 1. Praise is Powerful Psalm 147:1 reminds us, "Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to our God, for praise is pleasant and lovely." Praise is not just a duty; it's a delightful privilege. When we lift our voices in worship, we align our hearts with God's goodness, transforming our perspective and filling our lives with joy. 2. God Heals the Brokenhearted Verse 3 offers comfort: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." In a world full of hurt, God is the ultimate healer. He knows our deepest pains and offers restoration. Trust in His ability to mend what is broken in your life. 3. God's Understanding is Infinite Verse 5 declares, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." God's wisdom surpasses human comprehension. When faced with life's complexities, lean on His infinite understanding to guide your decisions and provide clarity. 4. The Creator Cares for Creation Psalm 147:8-9 illustrates God's care: "He covers the sky with clouds; He prepares rain for the earth; He makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the animals and for the young ravens when they call." God's provision extends to all creation, reminding us of His meticulous care and attention to detail. 5. God Values Humility Verse 6 states, "The LORD sustains the humble, but casts the wicked to the ground." Humility is a virtue that God cherishes. By humbling ourselves, we open the door to His sustaining grace and protection, while pride leads to downfall. 6. Worship with Gratitude Verse 7 encourages, "Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make music on the harp to our God." Gratitude is a powerful form of worship. By focusing on what we have rather than what we lack, we cultivate a heart of thankfulness that honors God. 7. God's Power is Evident in Nature Verses 15-18 describe God's command over nature: "He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly. He spreads the snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes." Nature itself testifies to God's power and majesty. Observing the world around us can deepen our awe and reverence for the Creator. 8. God Delights in Those Who Fear Him Verse 11 reveals, "The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion." Reverence for God and hope in His love are qualities that bring Him delight. Cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord leads to a life that pleases Him. 9. God's Word is a Source of Strength Verse 19 highlights, "He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and judgments to Israel." God's Word is a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we find strength and direction for every aspect of life. 10. God's Peace is a Blessing Finally, verse 14 promises, "He makes peace at your borders; He fills you with the finest wheat." God's peace is a profound blessing that transcends circumstances. When we trust in Him, He provides not only for our physical needs but also grants us peace that guards our hearts and minds. These lessons from Psalm 147 remind us of God's incredible power, love, and faithfulness. As we apply these truths to our lives, we draw closer to Him and experience the fullness of His blessings. Topics 1. Praise to the Lord for His Goodness (Verses 1-3) The psalm begins with a call to praise the Lord, emphasizing that it is good and fitting to sing praises to God. The Hebrew word for "praise" (הַלְלוּ) underscores the act of glorifying God for His inherent goodness. The psalmist highlights God's healing power, as He "heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" (v. 3). 2. God's Infinite Wisdom and Power (Verses 4-5) The psalmist marvels at God's omniscience and omnipotence, noting that He "determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name" (v. 4). The Hebrew root for "determines" (מָנָה) conveys God's sovereign control over creation. God's understanding is described as "beyond measure" (v. 5). 3. God's Care for the Humble and Justice for the Wicked (Verses 6-7) The Lord is depicted as one who "sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground" (v. 6). This reflects God's justice and His special care for the humble, aligning with the Hebrew concept of justice (מִשְׁפָּט). 4. Provision for Creation (Verses 8-9) The psalmist praises God for His provision, as He "covers the sky with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, and makes grass grow on the hills" (v. 8). God's care extends to all creatures, as He "provides food for the animals and for the young ravens when they call" (v. 9). 5. Delight in Those Who Fear Him (Verses 10-11) God does not take pleasure in physical strength or human might but delights in "those who fear Him, who put their hope in His loving devotion" (v. 11). The Hebrew word for "fear" (יָרֵא) implies reverence and awe towards God. 6. Praise from Jerusalem and Zion (Verses 12-14) The psalm calls for Jerusalem and Zion to praise God for His protection and blessings, as He "strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your children within you" (v. 13). This reflects God's covenantal faithfulness to His people. 7. God's Command over Nature (Verses 15-18) The psalmist describes God's command over the natural world, as His word "runs swiftly" (v. 15) and He controls the elements, sending snow, frost, and hail. The Hebrew word for "word" (דָּבָר) signifies God's authoritative decree. 8. Revelation to Jacob and Israel (Verses 19-20) The psalm concludes by highlighting God's special revelation to His people, as He "declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and judgments to Israel" (v. 19). This underscores the unique relationship between God and Israel, as He has not dealt similarly with other nations. Themes 1. Praise for God's Goodness and Power Psalm 147 opens with a call to praise the LORD, emphasizing His goodness and the pleasantness of praise. The Hebrew word for "praise" (הַלְלוּ) underscores the act of glorifying God for His inherent goodness and power. The psalmist highlights God's ability to heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds, showcasing His compassionate nature and omnipotence. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Creation The psalm speaks of God's control over the natural world, including the stars and the weather. The Hebrew term for "counts" (מוֹנֶה) in verse 4, where God "counts the number of the stars," reflects His intimate knowledge and authority over creation. This theme underscores God's sovereignty and meticulous care for the universe. 3. God's Provision and Care for His People The psalmist describes how God provides for the needs of His people, giving food to the animals and caring for the young ravens. The Hebrew root for "provides" (נָתַן) conveys the idea of God actively giving and sustaining life, illustrating His role as a provider and caretaker. 4. The Joy of the Lord in His People The psalm highlights that God takes pleasure in those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. The Hebrew word for "pleasure" (רָצוֹן) indicates God's delight in a relationship with His faithful followers, emphasizing the reciprocal joy between God and His people. 5. The Restoration of Jerusalem The psalm reflects on God's restoration of Jerusalem and the gathering of the exiles of Israel. The Hebrew term for "builds up" (בּוֹנֶה) in verse 2 signifies God's active role in restoring and fortifying His chosen city, symbolizing spiritual renewal and divine favor. 6. The Power of God's Word The psalmist acknowledges the power of God's word in commanding the elements and bringing about His will. The Hebrew word for "command" (צִוָּה) in verse 15 highlights the authority and effectiveness of God's spoken word, reinforcing the theme of divine omnipotence. 7. The Call to Worship The psalm concludes with a call for all creation to worship God, recognizing His eternal reign and justice. The Hebrew imperative for "praise" (הַלְלוּ) serves as a final exhortation for communal and individual worship, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's majesty and righteousness. Prayer Points Praise God for His Creation Thank God for His magnificent creation and His control over the universe. Pray for Healing Ask God to heal those who are brokenhearted and to bind up their wounds. Trust in God's Provision Pray for a deeper trust in God's provision and for the faith to rely on Him for all needs. Reverence and Hope Pray for a heart that fears the Lord and places hope in His loving devotion, seeking to delight Him in all things. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Psalm 147:4) How can God literally count and name every star in the universe, given the countless galaxies and ever-expanding cosmos? 2. (Psalm 147:2) The text references rebuilding Jerusalem—what evidence exists that this rebuilding happened precisely as described, and does the historical record match the biblical timeline? 3. (Psalm 147:9) Can the claim that God personally provides food for the animals be reconciled with scientific observations and the natural ecosystems we see today? 4. (Psalm 147:10–11) How does God’s supposed indifference to physical strength align with other biblical passages that celebrate or rely upon human might in battles and conquests? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 147 illustrate the connection between God's creation and His character? 2. How might the knowledge that God "heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" bring comfort in times of sorrow or distress? 3. How does the Psalmist describe the relationship between humanity and the natural world in this Psalm? 4. In verses 7-11, what reasons does the Psalmist give for praising God? How do these reasons apply to your life today? 5. How do the descriptions of God's power in verses 4-5 relate to His care for His people in verses 2-3? 6. How might understanding that God takes no pleasure in physical strength but in those fearing Him reshape our perspective on success? 7. How does the Psalmist's perspective of God's power and wisdom affect his view of the natural world? 8. In verses 12-14, how does God's protection and provision manifest for His people? 9. The Psalm ends with a mention of God's unique relationship with the descendants of Jacob. How does this exclusivity resonate with you as a believer? 10. Based on Psalm 147, how can we cultivate a greater sense of reverence and gratitude toward God in our everyday lives? 11. What can we learn from the Psalmist's attitude towards worship? 12. Psalm 147 speaks about the beauty of creation. How does observing nature inspire you to worship God? 13. How can the Psalmist's repeated call to praise God influence our daily prayer life? 14. How does the Psalmist's view of God's sovereign care challenge your current understanding of God's role in the world? 15. Psalm 147 celebrates God's power over nature and His care for all creatures. How does this view of God's character affect your understanding of environmental stewardship? 16. In the current state of the world, where do you see examples of God's strength and hope reflected in the verses of Psalm 147? 17. How does the understanding that God "strengthens the bars of your gates" apply to your personal spiritual struggles? 18. Psalm 147 describes God as both powerful and compassionate. How can this dual nature of God help us navigate times of difficulty and ease? 19. In what ways can the images of God's provision (as in the rains, the grass, the wheat) guide our perspectives on our own needs and wants? 20. How can the idea that God's delight is in those who fear Him and hope in His love influence our relationships and interactions with others? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions