Psalms Chapter 147 — God’s Care for the Broken and Creation
This psalm calls for praise to God for restoring Jerusalem, healing the suffering, and ruling over the wonders of nature.
1Praise the LORD,*Hebrew: יה Yah
2The LORD†LORD or GOD in all caps is from the Hebrew יהוה Yahweh except when otherwise noted as being from the short form יה Yah. builds up Jerusalem.
3He heals the broken in heart,
4He counts the number of the stars.
5Great is our Lord, and mighty in power.
6The LORD upholds the humble.
7Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving.
8who covers the sky with clouds,
9He provides food for the livestock,
10He doesn’t delight in the strength of the horse.
11The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him,
12Praise the LORD, Jerusalem!
13For he has strengthened the bars of your gates.
14He makes peace in your borders.
15He sends out his commandment to the earth.
16He gives snow like wool,
17He hurls down his hail like pebbles.
18He sends out his word, and melts them.
19He shows his word to Jacob,
20He has not done this for just any nation.
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the broken in heart,”
This verse offers a profound image of God's personal compassion toward those who are suffering emotionally.
Psalm 147:4
“He counts the number of the stars.”
It illustrates God's infinite knowledge and attention to detail within the vastness of creation.
Psalm 147:11
“The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him,”
It defines the specific character traits that God values over physical might or independence.
Chapter Summary
Psalm 147 is a hymn of praise focusing on God’s restoration of Jerusalem and His sovereignty over creation. The text highlights God’s compassion for the marginalized, stating that He heals the brokenhearted and upholds the humble. This personal care is contrasted with His infinite power as the one who counts and names the stars. The psalm describes God's control over meteorological phenomena, such as clouds, rain, snow, and frost, as well as His provision for animals. It clarifies that God’s favor is not won through physical strength—symbolized by the horse or the runner—but is found in those who revere Him. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the unique privilege of Israel, to whom God has revealed His specific laws and words. This distinction sets them apart from other nations, inviting a final call to praise the Lord for His guidance and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main message is a call to praise God for His dual role as the powerful Creator of the universe and the compassionate healer of His people. It emphasizes that the same God who names the stars also restores Jerusalem and heals the brokenhearted.
The chapter portrays God as the active provider and controller of natural forces, such as clouds, snow, and hail. It also notes His care for living creatures, mentioning that He provides food for the livestock.
The psalm states that God does not take delight in the strength of a horse or the physical prowess of humans. Instead, He finds pleasure in those who show reverence for Him and rely on His mercy.
Study Note
Psalm 147 is classified as one of the 'Hallelujah Psalms' that conclude the Psalter, focusing on communal praise for God's restoration of the community.
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