What does Psalm 50:3 mean?

The psalmist, Asaph, is setting a dramatic scene as God arrives to proclaim judgment (Psalm 50:1–2). This verse repeats common imagery used for God's power, including fire and storms (Deuteronomy 4:24; Isaiah 28:2). It also touches on themes Asaph often addressed in his work (Psalm 73:2–3; 74:10).

When God gave the Law to Israel, He descended on Mount Sinai in fire, and the mountain shook (Exodus 19:18). Exodus 24:17 says, "Now the appearance of the glory of the Lᴏʀᴅ was like a devouring fire on the top of the mountain in the sight of the people of Israel." Reflecting on that occasion, Moses told the people of Israel: "And you came near and stood at the foot of the mountain, while the mountain burned with fire to the heart of heaven, wrapped in darkness, cloud, and gloom. Then the Lᴏʀᴅ spoke to you out of the midst of the fire" (Deuteronomy 4:11–12). It is customary for a human judge to be clothed with a robe, but the Judge of heaven and earth is clothed in brilliant glory.