Psalms87

Psalms 87 celebrates Zion as the city beloved by the LORD, whose foundation is in the holy mountains. Glorious things are spoken of this city of God, which the LORD cherishes above all other dwellings of Jacob. The psalm prophesies a future where people from various nations, including Rahab (Egypt) and Babylon, will be counted as if "born" in Zion, signifying their inclusion in God's people. The LORD himself will establish Zion, and all spiritual blessings are found within her.

Zion: The City God Loves

1
A psalm of the sons of Korach. A song: On the holy mountains is [the city's] foundation. ​
2
ADONAI loves the gates of Tziyon more than all the dwellings in Ya'akov. ​
3
Glorious things are said about you, city of God. (Selah) ​

The Nations Registered in Zion

4
I count Rahav and Bavel among those who know me; Of P'leshet, Tzor and Ethiopia [they will say], "This one was born there." ​
5
But of Tziyon it will be said, "This one and that was born in it, for the Most High himself establishes it."
6
When he registers the peoples, ADONAI will record, "This one was born there."(Selah) ​

The Source of Joy and Life

7
Singers and dancers alike say, "For me, you are the source of everything." ​

Study Notes for Psalms 87

Verse 1

This psalm celebrates Zion (Jerusalem) as the city uniquely established and chosen by God. The 'holy mountains' refer specifically to the hills of Jerusalem, where the temple was located, signifying God’s permanent habitation.

Verse 2

The phrase 'gates of Zion' represents the entire city and its inhabitants. The Lord’s preference for Zion over 'all the dwellings of Jacob' emphasizes that Jerusalem is the specific place of covenant fulfillment and centralized worship.

Verse 3

To be called the 'city of God' is the highest honor, implying divine protection and a glorious future. The 'glorious things' spoken of Zion often point toward its eschatological role as the center of worldwide redemption.

Verse 4

This verse marks a radical shift, extending Zion’s privilege to the Gentiles. 'Rahab' is a poetic name for Egypt, and by mentioning traditional enemies (Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia), the psalm anticipates a time when all nations will be counted as native-born citizens of Zion.

Verse 6

This imagery describes God as the registrar, personally inscribing the names of those from foreign lands into the citizenship roll of Jerusalem. The emphasis is on God’s sovereign act of inclusion, confirming their spiritual rebirth within the covenant community.

Verse 7

The psalm concludes with a joyful celebration involving musicians and singers. The declaration, 'all my springs are in thee,' means that Zion is the source of all spiritual life, joy, and refreshment for the worshipper and the nations.

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