King James Version

What Does Psalms 76:4 Mean?

Psalms 76:4 in the King James Version says “Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 76 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.

Psalms 76:4 · KJV


Context

2

In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.

3

There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.

4

Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.

5

The stouthearted are spoiled, they have slept their sleep: and none of the men of might have found their hands.

6

At thy rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse are cast into a dead sleep.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The psalm praises God: "Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey" (Hebrew na-or atah adir me-harere teref). "Glorious" (Hebrew na-or) means luminous, radiant with light. "Excellent" (Hebrew adir) indicates majestic power. "Mountains of prey" likely refers to enemy strongholds where predatory nations dwelt. God surpasses all earthly power centers in glory and might. Where human kingdoms are predatory, God's rule is righteous.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Mountain strongholds were formidable military positions in ancient warfare—Assyria, Babylon, and other empires ruled from mountainous regions. Yet God transcends all earthly powers. Isaiah 2:2-3 prophesies God's mountain (Zion) will be exalted above all others. Revelation 21:10 depicts the New Jerusalem descending from God's mountain—ultimate fulfillment.

Reflection Questions

  1. What earthly powers or institutions intimidate you, and how does God's surpassing glory put them in perspective?
  2. How does recognizing God as "more glorious" than all competitors guard against idolatry of nation, success, or human authority?
  3. In what ways does Christ's exaltation "far above all rule and authority" (Ephesians 1:21) fulfill this supremacy?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
נָ֭אוֹר1 of 5

Thou art more glorious

H215

to be (causative, make) luminous (literally and metaphorically)

אַתָּ֥ה2 of 5
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

אַדִּ֗יר3 of 5

and excellent

H117

wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful

מֵֽהַרְרֵי4 of 5

than the mountains

H2042

a mountain

טָֽרֶף׃5 of 5

of prey

H2964

something torn, i.e., a fragment, e.g., a fresh leaf, prey, food


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 76:4 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 76:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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