Psalms 122 - Printer Friendly

What does Psalms 122 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

Fifteen psalms (Psalms 120—134) are labeled "of ascents," or "of degrees." Traveling to Jerusalem for required feasts (Deuteronomy 16:16), Israelites would need to climb—literally "ascend"—towards Mount Zion (2 Samuel 5:7) where Jerusalem was located (1 Kings 8:1). This song is also marked "of David." Not all psalms with this description were necessarily David's personal work—some are written in his style or with his perspective of faith (Psalm 86:1). This text offers no clear indications either way.

The song begins with joy at the idea of going to the temple for worship. The "house of the Lord" was constructed in Jerusalem (1 Kings 6:1). For those making a pilgrimage, crossing through the gates of the city would have been a joyful milestone (Psalm 122:1–2).

Jerusalem was established as David's capitol when he took the fortress of Zion from the Jebusites (2 Samuel 5:7). The city he founded grew on and around that location (1 Kings 8:1). Once the temple was built, Israelites of all the twelve tribes were to come there to honor the Lord. Rulers of the nation were from the lineage of David (2 Samuel 7:12; 1 Kings 2:11–12), of the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:10). The city was the center of both Israel's spiritual and government authority (Psalm 122:3–5).

As someone who loved the city, and what it represented, the psalmist prays for its protection and stability. This extends to those who live within the walls. It also applies to those who likewise love Jerusalem; this suggests all those who have faith in the Lord God. The prayer is sincere, and there were times when Jerusalem experienced peace. Unfortunately, for most of history, the city's leaders have turned away from God and the results (1 Kings 12:16–17; 2 Chronicles 36:17–20; Matthew 24:1–2) have been tragic (Psalm 122:6–9).

Psalm 122:1–2 rejoices because the psalmist—named as David—was called to worship God in Jerusalem. He is glad to be standing within the city. The expression "house of the Lord" frequently refers to the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9) and later to the temple (1 Kings 6:1) where sacrifices were offered.

Psalm 122:3–5 admires Jerusalem for its location, unified people, and as the place where Israel's tribes gather for worship. God established that location as the center of Israelite government. He also made it the focal point of worship under the old covenant.

Psalm 122:6–9 calls for prayers that Jerusalem will be kept secure and peaceful. Also, that its residents and all who love God will be safe. The psalmist, probably David, vows to seek Jerusalem's good for the sake of the Lord's house (1 Kings 6:1).

Chapter Summary:

The psalmist, likely David himself, is happy to be called to the temple, also called the "house of the Lord" (1 Kings 6:1). This is located in Jerusalem, the city of David (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). The city became the center of Israel's political and religious life. For those reasons, the psalmist prays that the city will be protected; he calls others to join in this prayer.

Chapter Context:

Psalms 120—134 seem to have been used when Israelites traveled to Mount Zion for required festivals (Deuteronomy 16:16). David had captured a mountain fortress (2 Samuel 5:7), Zion, which became his capitol city and the site of Jerusalem. This was later called the "city of David" (1 Kings 8:1). Since going to Jerusalem literally meant climbing to a higher elevation, this block of psalms are called songs "of ascents." Psalm 122 honors Jerusalem and prays for its peace and safety.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

Accessed 12/18/2024 10:25:27 AM