CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 68:5 A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy habitation.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/68-5.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/19_Psa_068_005.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 68:5 - God's Enemies Are Scattered" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy habitation." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/68-5.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/68-5.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/68.htm">Chapter 68</a> > Verse 5</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad5.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/68-4.htm" title="Psalm 68:4">◄</a> Psalm 68:5 <a href="/psalms/68-6.htm" title="Psalm 68:6">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/68.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/68.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/68.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is God, whose dwelling is holy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/68.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/68.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a defender of widows is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/68.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, <i>is</i> God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/68.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, <i>Is</i> God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/68.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy dwelling.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/68.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/68.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/68.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/68.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge <i>and</i> protector of the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/68.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />God in his holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/68.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />God in His holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/68.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, Is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/68.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Our God, from your sacred home you take care of orphans and protect widows. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/68.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/68.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />The God who is in his holy dwelling place is the father of the fatherless and the defender of widows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/68.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />God, who lives in his sacred Temple, cares for orphans and protects widows. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/68.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />A father to orphans and an advocate for widows is God in his holy dwelling place.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/68.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a defender of widows is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/68.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />He is a father to the fatherless and an advocate for widows. God rules from his holy palace. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/68.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/68.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/68.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in his holy habitation. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/68.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Father of the fatherless, and judge of the widows, "" [Is] God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/68.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Father of the fatherless, and judge of the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/68.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />A father of orphans and a judge of widows, God in his holy habitation.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/68.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />who is the father of orphans, and the judge of widows. God in his holy place: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/68.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 67:6>the father of orphans and the judge of widows. God is in his holy place.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/68.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Father of the fatherless, defender of widows — God in his holy abode, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/68.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Father of orphans and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/68.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless and a judge of widows is God in his holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/68.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Who is the father of the orphans and the judge of widows; God in his holy dwelling!<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/68.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/68.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br /><i>who is</i> the father of the orphans, and judge of the widows: <i>such is</i> God in his holy place.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/68-5.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=7869" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/68.htm">God's Enemies Are Scattered</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">4</span>Sing to God! Sing praises to His name. Exalt Him who rides on the clouds—His name is the LORD—and rejoice before Him. <span class="reftext">5</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1.htm" title="1: ’ă·ḇî (N-msc) -- Father. A primitive word; father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application).">A father</a> <a href="/hebrew/3490.htm" title="3490: yə·ṯō·w·mîm (N-mp) -- An orphan. From an unused root meaning to be lonely; a bereaved person.">of the fatherless,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1781.htm" title="1781: wə·ḏay·yan (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- A judge. From diyn; a judge or advocate.">and a defender</a> <a href="/hebrew/490.htm" title="490: ’al·mā·nō·wṯ (N-fp) -- A widow. Fem of 'alman; a widow; also a desolate place.">of the widows,</a> <a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: ’ĕ·lō·hîm (N-mp) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">is God</a> <a href="/hebrew/6944.htm" title="6944: qā·ḏə·šōw (N-msc:: 3ms) -- Apartness, sacredness. From qadash; a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity.">in His holy</a> <a href="/hebrew/4583.htm" title="4583: bim·‘ō·wn (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- Dwelling, habitation. Or maiyn; from the same as ownah; an abode, of God, men or animals; hence, a retreat.">habitation.</a> </span><span class="reftext">6</span>God settles the lonely in families; He leads the prisoners out to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a sun-scorched land.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-27.htm">James 1:27</a></span><br />Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/1-17.htm">Isaiah 1:17</a></span><br />Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/10-18.htm">Deuteronomy 10:18</a></span><br />He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/49-11.htm">Jeremiah 49:11</a></span><br />Abandon your orphans; I will preserve their lives. Let your widows trust in Me.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/exodus/22-22.htm">Exodus 22:22-24</a></span><br />You must not mistreat any widow or orphan. / If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to Me in distress, I will surely hear their cry. / My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword; then your wives will become widows and your children will be fatherless.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/9-6.htm">Isaiah 9:6</a></span><br />For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hosea/14-3.htm">Hosea 14:3</a></span><br />Assyria will not save us, nor will we ride on horses. We will never again say, ‘Our gods!’ to the work of our own hands. For in You the fatherless find compassion.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/29-12.htm">Job 29:12-13</a></span><br />because I rescued the poor who cried out and the fatherless who had no helper. / The dying man blessed me, and I made the widow’s heart sing for joy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/6-9.htm">Matthew 6:9</a></span><br />So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/14-18.htm">John 14:18</a></span><br />I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-15.htm">Romans 8:15</a></span><br />For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption to sonship, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/4-6.htm">Galatians 4:6</a></span><br />And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/6-18.htm">2 Corinthians 6:18</a></span><br />And: “I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/146-9.htm">Psalm 146:9</a></span><br />The LORD protects foreigners; He sustains the fatherless and the widow, but the ways of the wicked He frustrates.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/23-10.htm">Proverbs 23:10-11</a></span><br />Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, / for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.</p><p class="hdg">A father</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/10-14.htm">Psalm 10:14,18</a></b></br> Thou hast seen <i>it</i>; for thou beholdest mischief and spite, to requite <i>it</i> with thy hand: the poor committeth himself unto thee; thou art the helper of the fatherless… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/82-3.htm">Psalm 82:3,4</a></b></br> Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/146-9.htm">Psalm 146:9</a></b></br> The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down.</p><p class="hdg">a judge</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/72-2.htm">Psalm 72:2,4</a></b></br> He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/10-18.htm">Deuteronomy 10:18</a></b></br> He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/29-12.htm">Job 29:12,13</a></b></br> Because I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and <i>him that had</i> none to help him… </p><p class="hdg">in his</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/33-14.htm">Psalm 33:14</a></b></br> From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_chronicles/6-2.htm">2 Chronicles 6:2</a></b></br> But I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_chronicles/30-27.htm">2 Chronicles 30:27</a></b></br> Then the priests the Levites arose and blessed the people: and their voice was heard, and their prayer came <i>up</i> to his holy dwelling place, <i>even</i> unto heaven.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/job/5-4.htm">Defender</a> <a href="/psalms/55-15.htm">Dwelling</a> <a href="/psalms/10-18.htm">Fatherless</a> <a href="/psalms/49-14.htm">Habitation</a> <a href="/psalms/65-4.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/psalms/67-4.htm">Judge</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-25.htm">Protector</a> <a href="/job/27-15.htm">Widows</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/23-11.htm">Defender</a> <a href="/psalms/68-10.htm">Dwelling</a> <a href="/psalms/82-3.htm">Fatherless</a> <a href="/psalms/69-25.htm">Habitation</a> <a href="/psalms/68-17.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/psalms/72-2.htm">Judge</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-25.htm">Protector</a> <a href="/psalms/78-64.htm">Widows</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 68</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/68-1.htm">A prayer at the removing of the ark</a></span><br><span class="reftext">4. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/68-4.htm">An exhortation to praise God for his mercies</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/68-7.htm">for his care of the church</a></span><br><span class="reftext">19. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/68-19.htm">for his great works</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/68.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/68.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>A father of the fatherless</b><br>This phrase highlights God's compassionate nature and His special concern for those who are vulnerable and marginalized. In ancient Israel, orphans were among the most defenseless members of society, lacking the protection and provision of a family. The concept of God as a father to the fatherless is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing His role as a protector and provider. This is seen in passages like <a href="/deuteronomy/10-18.htm">Deuteronomy 10:18</a>, where God is described as executing justice for the fatherless. It also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of God as our Heavenly Father, as seen in <a href="/matthew/6-9.htm">Matthew 6:9</a>.<p><b>and a defender of widows</b><br>Widows, like orphans, were often left without support in the patriarchal society of ancient Israel. God's defense of widows underscores His justice and mercy. The Hebrew term for "defender" can also be translated as "judge" or "advocate," indicating God's active role in ensuring justice for those who cannot defend themselves. This aligns with the broader biblical mandate to care for widows, as seen in <a href="/james/1-27.htm">James 1:27</a>, which calls pure religion one that looks after orphans and widows in their distress.<p><b>is God in His holy habitation</b><br>This phrase situates God's compassionate actions within the context of His holiness. His "holy habitation" refers to His dwelling place, often understood as heaven or the temple. It signifies that God's care for the vulnerable is an expression of His holy character. The holiness of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, and His actions are always consistent with His nature. This also connects to the idea of God dwelling among His people, as seen in the tabernacle and later the temple, and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is Immanuel, "God with us" (<a href="/matthew/1-23.htm">Matthew 1:23</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a></b><br>The central figure in this verse, depicted as a compassionate and protective deity who cares for the vulnerable.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/f/fatherless.htm">Fatherless</a></b><br>Refers to orphans or those without a paternal figure, highlighting a group in need of care and protection.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/widows.htm">Widows</a></b><br>Women who have lost their husbands, often representing a vulnerable demographic in ancient societies.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/h/holy_habitation.htm">Holy Habitation</a></b><br>Symbolizes God's dwelling place, emphasizing His divine authority and purity.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_character_of_compassion.htm">God's Character of Compassion</a></b><br>God is portrayed as a loving and protective Father, emphasizing His deep compassion for those who are vulnerable and marginalized.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/call_to_imitate_god.htm">Call to Imitate God</a></b><br>As believers, we are called to reflect God's character by caring for the fatherless and widows in our communities, demonstrating His love through our actions.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/understanding_god's_justice.htm">Understanding God's Justice</a></b><br>God's justice is not just about punishment but about providing protection and support for those who cannot defend themselves.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_church's_role.htm">The Church's Role</a></b><br>The church is called to be a sanctuary for the vulnerable, actively seeking ways to support and uplift those in need, following the example set by God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/living_out_true_religion.htm">Living Out True Religion</a></b><br>True religion involves practical acts of kindness and justice, aligning our lives with God's heart for the fatherless and widows.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_68.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 68</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_god_comfort_the_lonely.htm">How does God comfort the lonely?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_scripture_say_to_care_for_orphans.htm">How should we care for orphans according to scripture?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'father_to_the_fatherless'_mean.htm">What does "God as father to the fatherless" mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/where_can_single_parents_get_support.htm">How can single parents find advice and support?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/68.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(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.<p><span class= "bld">A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows.</span>--These epithets of God seem to have become at a very early period almost proverbial.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/68.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 5.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God.</span> A defender, <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e.</span>, of the oppressed and downtrodden (comp. <a href="/isaiah/1-17.htm">Isaiah 1:17</a>). <span class="cmt_word">In his holy habitation.</span> The heavenly and not the earthly dwelling place - whether tabernacle or temple - seems to be intended. God from his holy seat in the highest heaven pours clown his grace and mercy, his defence and protection, on all those who specially need his aid. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/68-5.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">A father</span><br /><span class="heb">אֲבִ֣י</span> <span class="translit">(’ă·ḇî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1.htm">Strong's 1: </a> </span><span class="str2">Father</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of the fatherless,</span><br /><span class="heb">יְ֭תוֹמִים</span> <span class="translit">(yə·ṯō·w·mîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3490.htm">Strong's 3490: </a> </span><span class="str2">A bereaved person</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and a defender</span><br /><span class="heb">וְדַיַּ֣ן</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḏay·yan)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1781.htm">Strong's 1781: </a> </span><span class="str2">A judge, advocate</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of the widows,</span><br /><span class="heb">אַלְמָנ֑וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(’al·mā·nō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_490.htm">Strong's 490: </a> </span><span class="str2">A widow, a desolate place</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[is] God</span><br /><span class="heb">אֱ֝לֹהִ֗ים</span> <span class="translit">(’ĕ·lō·hîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> </span><span class="str2">gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in His holy</span><br /><span class="heb">קָדְשֽׁוֹ׃</span> <span class="translit">(qā·ḏə·šōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6944.htm">Strong's 6944: </a> </span><span class="str2">A sacred place, thing, sanctity</span><br /><br /><span class="word">habitation.</span><br /><span class="heb">בִּמְע֥וֹן</span> <span class="translit">(bim·‘ō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4583.htm">Strong's 4583: </a> </span><span class="str2">An abode, of God, men, animals, a retreat</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/68-5.htm">Psalm 68:5 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/68-5.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 68:5 A father of the fatherless (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/68-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 68:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 68:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/68-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 68:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 68:6" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>