What does Psalm chapter 45 mean?
Though no specific occasion is mentioned, this song appears to be for a wedding. And yet, some of the phrases create a preview of the ministry of Jesus Christ. Verses 6 and 7 are directly cited in Hebrews 1:8–9. Though the psalmist is speaking about an earthly king, he is also recording insights into the ultimate King, the Messiah.The opening title of this psalm addresses it to a musical leader of some kind. It also notes the Hebrew word sō'sannim, or "lilies," possibly referring to the tune to which it was sung. As are several other psalms, this is identified as a maskiyl, probably meaning a pensive song. The "Sons of Korah" were influential in worship in the temple during the era of David and Solomon.
The psalm opens with gushing praise for the king, apparently on the occasion of his wedding. The writer applauds the king's attractiveness, poise, might, and military prowess. Some of these are framed as "hyperbole:" a deliberate exaggeration for effect. Just as a modern love song might call someone "the most beautiful in the world," so too does the psalmist compliment the king. So far as messianic prophecies are concerned, most of these could apply to Jesus, other than exceptional attractiveness (Isaiah 53:2). The following segment, however, is a much closer description of the Messiah (Psalm 45:1–5).
In the book of Hebrews, part of this psalm is cited, to point out that the Promised One is not an angel, but an earthly king who is also God (Hebrews 1:8–9). The king is depicted in incredible splendor, followed by attendants who also radiate beauty. This parallels the Bible's frequent use of marriage images when depicting God's relationship with Israel and Christ's relationship to the church (Isaiah 54:5; Hosea 2:19; John 3:29; Revelation 21:9; 22:17). The psalmist also encourages loyalty and honor for the king, an appropriate echo of believers showing reverence to their King Jesus (Psalm 45:6–15).
At the end of the psalm, the writer makes further references to concepts such as sonship, ruling, remembrance, and the praise of all nations. These, as well, resonate with the Bible's predictions about the ministry of Jesus Christ (Psalm 45:16–17).