Psalms 125:1

KJV

¶ A Song of degrees. They that trust in the LORD [shall be] as mount Zion, [which] cannot be removed, [but] abideth for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

A Song {H7892} of degrees {H4609}. They that trust {H982} in the LORD {H3068} shall be as mount {H2022} Zion {H6726}, which cannot be removed {H4131}, but abideth {H3427} for ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A song of ascents: Those who trust in ADONAI are like Mount Tziyon, which cannot be moved but remains forever.

Berean Standard Bible

Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion. It cannot be moved; it abides forever.

American Standard Version

They that trust in Jehovah Are as mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abideth for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 125:1, the inaugural verse of a Song of Ascent, profoundly declares the unwavering security and steadfast stability granted to all who place their trust in the LORD. It likens the believer's enduring foundation to the immovability of Mount Zion, a powerful symbol of divine presence and unshakeable strength, assuring a permanence that transcends earthly uncertainties and abides eternally.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse opens one of the fifteen "Songs of Ascent" or "Songs of Degrees" (Psalms 120-134), a unique collection likely recited or sung by Jewish pilgrims as they journeyed uphill to Jerusalem for the annual festivals. These psalms often reflect themes pertinent to a pilgrim's journey: trust, protection, communal joy, and the spiritual significance of reaching God's holy city. Psalms 125, specifically, serves as a declaration of security and confidence, perhaps sung upon reaching Jerusalem or even in anticipation, affirming that the spiritual destination—God's presence—is as secure as the physical landmark of [Mount Zion](/psalms/48-1 "Psalms 48:1 - God's Holy Mountain"). The psalm immediately follows Psalms 124, which celebrates God's deliverance from enemies, setting a tone of gratitude and assured safety that Psalms 125 expands upon by focusing on the internal steadfastness of the trusting heart.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem, and particularly Mount Zion, held immense religious and political significance in ancient Israel. It was the site of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence, and the capital of the Davidic kingdom. Pilgrims undertaking the journey to Jerusalem faced various perils, including bandits, natural elements, and the general hardships of travel. The ascent itself was a metaphor for spiritual growth and drawing nearer to God. In a world where cities were often besieged and kingdoms rose and fell, the idea of an "unmovable" mountain like Zion was a powerful image of stability. For the ancient Israelite, trusting in the LORD meant aligning oneself with the ultimate source of power and permanence, contrasting sharply with the transient nature of human empires and earthly securities. The imagery of Mount Zion would have resonated deeply with those who understood its central role in their national and spiritual identity.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 125:1 introduces several profound themes that resonate throughout the Songs of Ascent and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Unwavering Trust** is paramount, emphasizing a deep, active reliance on God rather than self-sufficiency or external circumstances. This trust is presented as the prerequisite for divine security. Secondly, **Divine Security** is vividly portrayed through the powerful simile of [Mount Zion](/psalms/48-2 "Psalms 48:2 - Mount Zion, the joy of the whole earth"), which symbolizes God's protective presence and the unshakeable nature of His promises. Just as the mountain stands firm, so too does God ensure the stability of those who depend on Him. This theme echoes God's character as a [refuge and strength](/psalms/46-1 "Psalms 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength"). Lastly, the concept of **Enduring Faith** is highlighted by the phrase "abideth for ever," suggesting that the security granted by God is not fleeting but eternal, providing a lasting foundation for life's journey, both temporal and eternal. This enduring quality speaks to God's faithfulness across generations, as seen in His covenant with His people, a theme also explored in [Psalms 100:5](/psalms/100-5 "Psalms 100:5 - God's Enduring Mercy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Trust (Hebrew, _bāṭaḥ'_):** This verb signifies more than mere intellectual assent; it implies a deep-seated reliance, confidence, and feeling of security. It suggests leaning upon someone, being secure in their care, and finding refuge in their strength. In the context of Psalms 125:1, it describes a profound commitment of the heart and will to depend entirely on the LORD, acknowledging His sovereignty and faithfulness as the ultimate source of stability.
* **Removed (Hebrew, _môṭ'_):** This word conveys the idea of tottering, slipping, shaking, or being dislodged from a foundation. It describes instability or precariousness. The declaration that those who trust in the LORD "cannot be removed" powerfully asserts their absolute spiritual and existential stability, contrasting with the inherent instability of all earthly foundations and human endeavors.
* **Abideth (Hebrew, _yāšaḇ'_):** This verb means "to sit," "to dwell," "to remain," or "to settle." It denotes a sense of permanent residence, fixed position, and lasting presence. When applied to the believer's security, it emphasizes an enduring, settled state of being that is not subject to the vicissitudes of life, reinforcing the eternal nature of God's protection and the stability He imparts.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They that trust in the LORD":** This opening clause establishes the prerequisite for the promised security. "Trust" (bāṭaḥ) implies a conscious, active, and unwavering reliance on God's character, promises, and power. It is not a passive hope but an active commitment of one's entire being to depend solely on the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This trust sets apart those who will experience the subsequent divine blessing.
* **"[shall be] as mount Zion":** This is the core simile of the verse. The comparison to Mount Zion is highly significant. Mount Zion was not just a geographical feature but the very heart of Jerusalem, the site of God's Temple, and a symbol of His dwelling place and unshakeable kingdom. By likening trusting believers to this iconic, physically immovable landmark, the psalmist conveys an image of profound, divinely-granted stability and permanence.
* **"[which] cannot be removed":** This phrase directly elaborates on the nature of Mount Zion's stability and, by extension, the believer's. It emphasizes an absolute, inherent resistance to being dislodged or shaken. This speaks to a security that transcends human efforts or external threats, rooted in the unchangeable nature of God Himself. It implies a divine protection that renders the believer impervious to forces that would otherwise cause them to totter or fall.
* **"[but] abideth for ever":** This concluding phrase reinforces the eternal and enduring quality of the security. "Abideth for ever" (yāšaḇ lĕ‘ôlām) speaks of a settled, permanent dwelling or state. It assures that the stability granted to those who trust in the LORD is not temporary or conditional but perpetual, extending into eternity. This provides ultimate comfort and certainty, knowing that their foundation in God is everlasting.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 125:1 is rich in literary artistry, primarily employing **Simile** and **Symbolism**. The central device is the **Simile**, explicitly stating that "They that trust in the LORD [shall be] as mount Zion." This comparison directly links the abstract concept of spiritual security to the concrete, tangible reality of a physically imposing and unshakeable mountain. Mount Zion itself functions as powerful **Symbolism**, representing not only the physical stability of Jerusalem but, more profoundly, the steadfastness of God's presence, His covenant faithfulness, and the enduring nature of His kingdom. The imagery evokes a sense of permanence and divine protection. Furthermore, the verse uses **Hyperbole** in the phrases "cannot be removed" and "abideth for ever" to emphasize the absolute and eternal nature of the security, underscoring that this is a divine, not human, stability. There is also an implied **Contrast** between the shifting uncertainties of human experience and the immutable steadfastness found in God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This foundational verse establishes a profound theological truth: the believer's security is not contingent upon their own strength, circumstances, or the stability of the world, but solely upon their steadfast trust in the LORD. This trust connects them to God's own immutable nature, making them participants in His unshakeable character. The imagery of Mount Zion, God's holy dwelling place, underscores that true security is found in proximity to and reliance upon the divine presence. This is a security rooted in God's faithfulness and sovereignty, promising that those who lean on Him will never be ultimately dislodged or overthrown, regardless of the trials they face. It speaks to God's covenant loyalty and His unwavering commitment to His people, providing an anchor for the soul in a turbulent world.

* [Psalms 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "God Our Refuge and Strength")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5 "Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")
* [Isaiah 26:3-4](/isaiah/26-3 "Perfect Peace for the Steadfast")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world characterized by constant flux, economic uncertainties, social upheavals, and personal anxieties, Psalms 125:1 offers a timeless and deeply comforting message. It challenges us to examine the true source of our security. Are we building our lives on shifting sands—like wealth, reputation, or human approval—or on the unshakeable rock of God's faithfulness? This verse calls us to a radical dependence, reminding us that when our trust is firmly anchored in the LORD, our spiritual foundation becomes as stable as Mount Zion itself. This doesn't mean we will never face storms, but rather that when the storms come, we will not be uprooted. Our inner peace and steadfastness are not determined by external circumstances but by the unwavering character of the God in whom we trust. It encourages us to cultivate a deep, abiding relationship with Him, knowing that He is our eternal refuge and our constant support, enabling us to stand firm amidst life's greatest challenges.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What areas of your life are you currently trying to secure through your own efforts or worldly means, rather than trusting fully in the LORD?**
* **How does the imagery of Mount Zion's immovability speak to your personal anxieties or fears about the future?**
* **In what practical ways can you deepen your "trust in the LORD" this week, moving from intellectual belief to active reliance?**
* **How might living with the assurance of being "as Mount Zion" change your perspective on difficulties or setbacks?**

### FAQ
**What does "A Song of degrees" mean in the context of Psalms 125:1?**

Answer: "A Song of degrees" (Hebrew: _Shir Hama'alot_) refers to the collection of fifteen psalms (Psalms 120-134) known as the Songs of Ascent or Pilgrim Songs. These psalms were likely sung by Jewish pilgrims as they "ascended" or "went up" to Jerusalem for the three annual festivals (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). The "degrees" could refer to the steps leading up to the Temple, the stages of the journey, or a musical arrangement. This particular psalm, [Psalms 125](/psalms/125 "Psalms 125 - Security of Those Who Trust in the Lord"), would have provided comfort and assurance to pilgrims, affirming God's protection as they approached His holy city.

**Why is Mount Zion used as the comparison for those who trust in the LORD?**

Answer: Mount Zion was not merely a geographical landmark; it was the spiritual and political heart of ancient Israel, the site of the Temple, and the dwelling place of God's presence in Jerusalem. It was considered a sacred and unshakeable mountain, symbolizing God's enduring covenant with His people and His eternal kingdom. By comparing those who trust in the LORD to [Mount Zion](/psalms/48-1 "Psalms 48:1 - God's Holy Mountain"), the psalmist emphasizes the absolute, divinely-granted stability and permanence of their spiritual foundation. Just as Mount Zion stood firm against all earthly powers, so too would believers remain steadfast because their security was rooted in the immutable character of God Himself.

**Does Psalms 125:1 imply that believers will never face difficulties or be shaken in life?**

Answer: No, Psalms 125:1 does not promise an absence of difficulties or external challenges. Instead, it promises an internal, spiritual steadfastness that remains unshaken _despite_ external pressures. The "cannot be removed" refers to a foundational stability, a security of being rooted in God, rather than immunity from life's storms. Believers, like Mount Zion, may endure adverse weather, but they remain firmly fixed. The New Testament confirms that believers will face trials ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Overcoming the World")) but are promised peace and ultimate victory through Christ, ensuring their spiritual foundation remains secure.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 125:1, with its powerful declaration of unshakeable security for those who trust in the LORD, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Mount Zion served as a tangible symbol of God's steadfast presence in the Old Covenant, Christ Himself is the true and eternal foundation upon which believers are built. He is the "chief cornerstone" ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone")) and the only foundation upon which anyone can truly build their life ([1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation")). Those who "trust in the LORD" in the New Covenant are those who place their faith in Jesus, recognizing Him as God incarnate, the source of all security and stability. His finished work on the cross and His resurrection guarantee a peace that the world cannot give ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Peace")) and an enduring spiritual reality that "cannot be removed." Just as Jesus taught that those who hear His words and put them into practice are like a wise man who built his house on the rock, which stands firm against the storms ([Matthew 7:24-25](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24-25 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")), so too are believers in Christ rooted in an unshakeable kingdom ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakeable Kingdom")). Our security is not merely _like_ Mount Zion; it is _in_ Christ, who is eternally secure, ensuring that nothing can separate us from the love of God ([Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38 "Romans 8:38-39 - Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 17:7

Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.

Jeremiah 17:8

For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and [that] spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

Psalms 62:2

He only [is] my rock and my salvation; [he is] my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.

Proverbs 3:5

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Proverbs 3:6

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Psalms 118:8

[It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Psalms 118:9

[It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.