King James Version

What Does Psalms 50:2 Mean?

Psalms 50:2 in the King James Version says “Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 50 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.

Psalms 50:2 · KJV


Context

1

A Psalm of Asaph. The mighty God, even the LORD, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof. of: or, for Asaph

2

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.

3

Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him.

4

He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Zion as source of revelation: 'Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.' The 'perfection of beauty' describes Jerusalem as God's dwelling, from which His glory radiates. Divine 'shining' recalls Sinai's theophany and anticipates ultimate glory when God dwells with His people.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Zion theology emphasized Jerusalem as the place of God's special presence. 'Shining forth' indicates visible manifestation of divine glory, terrifying to enemies, comforting to the faithful.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why is Zion called 'the perfection of beauty'?
  2. How does God 'shine' from His dwelling place?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
מִצִּיּ֥וֹן1 of 5

Out of Zion

H6726

tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem

מִכְלַל2 of 5

the perfection

H4359

perfection (of beauty)

יֹ֗פִי3 of 5

of beauty

H3308

beauty

אֱלֹהִ֥ים4 of 5

God

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

הוֹפִֽיעַ׃5 of 5

hath shined

H3313

to shine


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 50:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 50:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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