Psalms 48:5
They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away.
Original Language Analysis
רָ֭אוּ
They saw
H7200
רָ֭אוּ
They saw
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
2 of 6
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
כֵּ֣ן
H3651
כֵּ֣ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
Historical Context
Sennacherib's sudden retreat (2 Kings 19:35-36) after the angel's destruction of his army exemplifies this pattern. Human armies encounter divine resistance and flee.
Questions for Reflection
- What causes confident opposition to suddenly crumble before God?
- How does the enemies' reaction validate faith in divine protection?
Analysis & Commentary
When the kings saw Zion, 'they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away.' Instead of conquering, they flee in panic. The sight of God's city--or more precisely, awareness of its divine defender--produces not triumph but terror. Their haste reveals the reversal of their confident advance.