Psalms 45 - Printer Friendly

What does Psalms 45 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

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).

Psalm 45:1–5 begins the psalmist's joyful song of admiration. He extols his king as handsome, mighty, and victorious. Although a descendant of David is likely the main object of this adoration, the description fits Jesus, the King of kings. The following passage makes this identification clear.

Psalm 45:6–17 describes the glorious king, his bride, and the wedding procession. The original subject of this song was an earthly king and his bride. However, the words also serve as prophecies about the ultimate Davidic King, Jesus Christ.

Chapter Summary:

The psalm begins with the exaggeration for effect common to love songs and works celebrating an earthly king. The groom is described as handsome, powerful, and graceful. The psalm also speaks of an eternal throne—this connects to prophecies about the Messiah (2 Samuel 7:12–13; Hebrews 1:8–9). The Bible often uses marriage images to explain the relationship between Christ and the church, including songs such as this.

Chapter Context:

This psalm is often identified as a marriage song, likely ascribing praise to a descendant of David. However, its praise transcends a mortal ruler and his wedding. There are messianic interpretations, noted in the New Testament (Hebrews 1:8–9). These references provide another layer of meaning, as they praise the King of kings, Jesus Christ.

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.

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