Psalms 125:1

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

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

Psalms 125:1 is the opening verse of a "Song of degrees," or a Psalm of Ascent, offering a profound message of security and stability for those who place their faith in the Lord.

Context

This verse belongs to a collection of fifteen psalms (Psalms 120-134) known as the Songs of Ascent or "Songs of Degrees." These psalms were likely sung by Jewish pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the three annual festivals (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). The journey to Jerusalem, culminating at Mount Zion, symbolized a spiritual pilgrimage. This particular psalm opens with a declaration of the unwavering stability granted to those who trust in God, contrasting the journey's potential uncertainties with divine steadfastness.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Trust: The central theme is the absolute security found in trusting in the LORD. It suggests a complete reliance on God's character and promises, rather than on human strength or circumstances.
  • Divine Security: The verse powerfully equates the believer's stability with that of Mount Zion, a prominent and unshakeable landmark in Jerusalem. Just as Mount Zion is geographically immovable, so too are those whose confidence rests in God. This speaks to God's role as our ultimate refuge and strength.
  • Enduring Faith: The phrase "abideth for ever" emphasizes the permanence and eternal nature of the security granted by God. It’s not a temporary shield but a lasting foundation for life, both now and eternally.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "trust" is bāṭaḥ (בָּטַח), which implies not just intellectual belief but a deep reliance, confidence, and feeling of security. It suggests leaning on someone, being secure in their care.
  • "Removed" comes from the Hebrew môṭ (מוֹט), meaning "to totter," "slip," or "shake." The verse declares that those who trust in the Lord will not totter or be shaken from their foundation, unlike many earthly things that are prone to instability.
  • "Abideth" is yēšēḇ (יֵשֵׁב), which means "to sit," "dwell," or "remain." It conveys a sense of settled, permanent residence, reinforcing the idea of lasting stability and security.

Practical Application

In a world often characterized by change, uncertainty, and upheaval, Psalms 125:1 offers immense comfort and reassurance. It reminds believers that true stability comes not from external circumstances or personal strength, but from a steadfast reliance on God. When faced with trials, anxieties, or the shifting sands of life, this verse encourages us to anchor our souls in the Lord. Just as Mount Zion stands firm, so too will our spiritual foundation remain unshaken if our trust is in Him. This unwavering trust allows us to face challenges with peace, knowing that God is our constant and eternal support, enabling us to be steadfast and unmovable in our faith.

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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 17:7 (34 votes)

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

  • Jeremiah 17:8 (34 votes)

    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 (23 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 3:5 (22 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 3:6 (22 votes)

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

  • Psalms 118:8 (15 votes)

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

  • Psalms 118:9 (15 votes)

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