What does Psalm 48:2 mean?
This psalm uses Jerusalem as a living example of God's greatness. "His holy mountain" (Psalm 48:1) is Zion. This term is used for more than one location in or around the city. The name "Mount Zion" is sometimes applied to the hill just south of old Jerusalem, and at other times to the temple mount. It's likely the mention of Zion's location "in the far north" refers to the position of the temple mount within ancient Jerusalem.Jerusalem is said to be "beautiful in elevation," using a Hebrew phrase word that has more to do with an advantageous position than extreme height. Jerusalem is located among a low mountain range which runs north and south; approaching from the east or west, it would appear to be situated "above" the traveler.
Prophetically, Jerusalem has brought joy to all the earth. Jesus died outside the city (Hebrews 13:12; Mark 15:20) to pay the penalty of sin and give eternal life to all who believe on Him as their Savior (John 3:16–18). Jesus will reign over all the earth from Jerusalem when He makes it His kingdom's capital city (Psalm 2:6; Isaiah 65:17–19). People throughout the kingdom will invite one another to go to Jerusalem to learn the Lord's ways (Isaiah 2:3).