King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:5 Mean?

“A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.”

Context

But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. exceedingly: Heb. rejoice with gladness

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.

A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.

God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land. in families: Heb. in a house

O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah:

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) The LXX. and Vulg. prefix to this verse, “They shall be troubled by the face of Him who is,” &c, which seems to indicate that the abrupt introduction of this description of God is due to some loss in the text. **A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows.**—These epithets of God seem to have become at a very early period almost proverbial.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 68:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.