Psalms 132:1

KJV

¶ A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, [and] all his afflictions:

KJV (with Strong's)

A Song {H7892} of degrees {H4609}. LORD {H3068}, remember {H2142} David {H1732}, and all his afflictions {H6031}:

Complete Jewish Bible

A song of ascents: ADONAI, remember in David's favor all the hardships he endured,

Berean Standard Bible

O LORD, remember on behalf of David all the hardships he endured,

American Standard Version

Jehovah, remember for David All his affliction;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 132:1, introducing one of the "Songs of Ascents," initiates a profound petition to the Almighty, urging Him to recall the unwavering devotion and profound hardships endured by King David. This opening verse masterfully sets the stage for a psalm that delves into David's fervent commitment to establishing a permanent dwelling place for God's presence in Jerusalem, alongside the enduring nature of the divine covenant promises made to his royal lineage. It encapsulates a deep yearning for God's active remembrance and faithfulness to His past commitments, laying the theological groundwork for the psalm's central themes of the Davidic covenant and the sanctity of God's dwelling.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 132 stands as a pivotal "Song of Ascents" (Psalms 120-134), a collection traditionally sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem for annual festivals. While many psalms in this collection express general longing for Zion or prayers for peace, Psalm 132 uniquely anchors itself in the historical and covenantal foundations of Jerusalem's significance: the Davidic dynasty and the divine dwelling place. It serves as a profound prayer, likely recited upon arrival at the Temple, reflecting on the historical efforts to establish God's presence there and appealing to God's enduring covenant faithfulness. Its placement near the end of the collection may signify a climactic reflection on the spiritual heart of Israel's pilgrimage, culminating in a meditation on the Temple and its associated divine promises.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The plea "remember David, and all his afflictions" resonates deeply with the historical narrative of King David's reign. After securing Jerusalem as his capital, David's fervent desire was to bring the Ark of the Covenant, the tangible symbol of God's presence, to the city and establish a permanent dwelling for it, as chronicled in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem"). The term "afflictions" (Hebrew: עָנָה, _ʻânâh_) here encompasses not merely personal suffering but also the intense labor, self-denial, and strenuous efforts David undertook for this sacred purpose. This included his personal vow not to rest until a suitable place for God was found, as detailed later in the psalm. Culturally, the Ark's presence was central to Israel's identity and worship, representing God's covenantal relationship with His people and His kingship. The request for God to "remember" (Hebrew: זָכַר, _zâkar_) David is not a call for cognitive recall, but an appeal for God to act decisively in accordance with His established covenant and promises made to David and his lineage.
* **Key Themes:** This opening verse introduces several profound themes central to the entire psalm and indeed, to Israel's theological understanding. Firstly, it highlights **David's Unwavering Devotion and Sacrifice**, underscoring his personal zeal and the immense efforts he expended to honor God by seeking a proper dwelling place for the Ark. His "afflictions" speak to a costly commitment that went beyond mere duty, echoing his vow found later in [Psalms 132:3-5](/psalms/132-3-5 "Psalm 132:3-5 - David's Vow for God's Dwelling"). Secondly, the verse implicitly invokes **God's Faithfulness to His Covenant**, specifically the unconditional promise made to David in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), guaranteeing an enduring dynasty and a perpetual kingdom. The plea for God to "remember" serves as a powerful reminder of God's own sworn word. Finally, it sets the stage for the overarching theme of **The Importance of God's Dwelling Place**, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the Ark and, by extension, the future Temple in Jerusalem as the visible center of God's presence among His people, a place where divine and human realms intersected.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This term (H3068) refers to Yahweh, the self-existent, eternal God, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The use of this specific divine name in the petition underscores the covenantal relationship between God and His people, and specifically with David. It is an appeal to the very character and faithfulness of the God who has revealed Himself through His promises and actions.
* **remember (Hebrew, _zâkar'_):** In biblical Hebrew, _zâkar_ (H2142) signifies far more than a mere cognitive recollection. When God is asked to "remember," it is a fervent plea for Him to act upon His past promises, covenants, or character. It implies active intervention and faithfulness to an established relationship. Here, it is a call for God to fulfill the covenant promises made to David, particularly concerning his lineage and the Temple, demonstrating His active commitment to His sworn word.
* **afflictions (Hebrew, _ʻânâh'_):** This term (H6031) is a primitive root meaning "to depress literally or figuratively." While the KJV translates it as "afflictions" (a noun), the underlying Hebrew verb implies the act of humbling, subduing, or causing oneself to be in a state of hardship. In David's context, it refers to his zealous, self-denying, and strenuous efforts and the hardships he willingly endured in his pursuit of a permanent resting place for the Ark of the Covenant, prioritizing God's honor and presence over his own comfort. It speaks to his costly and passionate dedication.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ A Song of degrees.":** This superscription, common to Psalms 120-134, identifies the psalm as a "Song of Ascents" or "Song of Steps." It likely indicates its use by pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem for the three annual festivals (Passover, Weeks, Booths) or perhaps refers to the fifteen steps leading from the Court of Women to the Court of Israel in the Temple. It immediately frames the psalm within the context of spiritual pilgrimage and anticipation of divine presence in Zion, setting a tone of hopeful ascent towards God's holy city.
* **"LORD, remember David,":** This is a direct, earnest invocation to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. The plea to "remember" David is a profound theological statement, not asking God to recall a forgotten fact, but to actively demonstrate His faithfulness to the covenant He established with David (as recorded in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant")). It is a petition for God to act in accordance with His sworn promises concerning David's lineage and the enduring nature of his kingdom, which was intrinsically linked to the establishment of God's dwelling place.
* **"[and] all his afflictions:":** This clause specifies the particular aspect of David that the psalmist implores God to remember: his "afflictions." As discussed in key word analysis, this refers to David's zealous, costly, and self-sacrificing efforts to secure a permanent home for the Ark of the Covenant. It highlights his deep personal commitment and the hardships he willingly endured, prioritizing God's honor and presence over his own comfort, even vowing not to enter his own house until he found a resting place for the Ark ([Psalms 132:3-5](/psalms/132-3-5 "Psalm 132:3-5 - David's Vow to Find God a Dwelling")). This serves as a powerful reminder of David's devotion as a basis for God's continued favor.

#### Literary Devices
The opening verse of Psalm 132 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound appeal. The direct address, **Invocation**, to "LORD" (Yahweh) immediately establishes a personal and covenantal relationship between the psalmist and God, setting a tone of earnest supplication. The phrase "remember David, and all his afflictions" functions as a form of **Synecdoche**, where "David" represents not just the man, but his entire legacy, his kingship, his covenantal relationship with God, and his foundational role in Israel's history. Similarly, "all his afflictions" serves as a **Metonymy** for his zealous and self-sacrificing efforts to establish a dwelling place for God's presence, rather than merely personal hardships. This plea also carries an implicit **Allusion** to the divine covenant established with David in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), reminding God of His own sworn promises in light of David's devotion. The structure of the verse itself, with its direct petition, creates a sense of **Urgency** and deep spiritual longing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 132:1 serves as a foundational theological statement, weaving together the themes of divine covenant, human devotion, and the nature of God's remembrance. The request for God to "remember David" underscores the biblical understanding of divine memory not as a passive recall, but as an active, covenantal engagement. God's "remembering" is always tied to His faithfulness to His promises, particularly the enduring Davidic Covenant, which guaranteed an eternal dynasty and a perpetual kingdom. David's "afflictions" present a profound example of costly human devotion and zealous pursuit of God's honor, demonstrating that genuine faith often involves significant personal sacrifice. This verse thus lays the groundwork for the psalm's subsequent focus on the Temple as God's chosen dwelling place and the perpetual nature of the Davidic line, both central to Israel's theological identity and hope.

* [2 Samuel 7:11-16](/2_samuel/7-11-16 "God's Covenant with David")
* [Nehemiah 13:14](/nehemiah/13-14 "God Remembers Nehemiah's Good Deeds")
* [Hebrews 6:10](/hebrews/6-10 "God Will Not Forget Your Work and Love")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 132:1 offers a profound invitation for personal reflection and practical application in the life of a believer. Just as David demonstrated an unwavering, costly devotion to establishing a dwelling place for God's presence, so too are believers called to prioritize God's presence in their lives and communities. Our "afflictions" might not be literal battles or the physical labor of building a temple, but they can manifest as the sacrifices of time, resources, comfort, or reputation in pursuing God's kingdom and serving His purposes. This verse reassures us that our sincere efforts, our zealous pursuits, and the hardships we endure for the sake of Christ and His church are not unnoticed or forgotten by God. It encourages perseverance in faith, reminding us that God is faithful to His promises and remembers the hearts of those who diligently seek Him, honor His name, and strive to make His presence known in a world that desperately needs it.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "afflictions" or costly efforts have you undertaken in your pursuit of God's presence or kingdom?**
* **How does the biblical concept of God "remembering" encourage you in your faith journey?**
* **In what practical ways can you prioritize God's dwelling place (His presence in your life and community) today?**

### FAQ
**What is the meaning of "A Song of degrees" in the superscription?**

Answer: "A Song of degrees" (Hebrew: _Shir Hama'alot_) is the title given to a collection of fifteen psalms (Psalms 120-134). The exact meaning of "degrees" (or "ascents," "steps") is debated among scholars, but the most widely accepted interpretations suggest it refers to the songs sung by Jewish pilgrims as they "ascended" to Jerusalem for the three annual festivals (Passover, Weeks, and Booths). It could also refer to the fifteen steps leading up from the Court of Women to the Court of Israel in the Temple, or even signify a gradual, step-by-step spiritual ascent. Regardless of the precise origin, it frames these psalms as hymns of pilgrimage, anticipation, and spiritual elevation, often culminating in the worship of God in His holy city, Zion, as seen throughout the collection, for example, in [Psalms 122](/psalms/122 "Psalm 122 - A Song of David for Jerusalem").

**Why does the psalmist ask God to "remember David, and all his afflictions"?**

Answer: The request is not for God to recall a forgotten fact, but for Him to act in accordance with His covenantal promises to David. To "remember" (Hebrew: _zâkar_) in a biblical context means to be actively mindful of and to intervene on behalf of a past commitment or relationship. David's "afflictions" (Hebrew: _ʻânâh_) refer to his strenuous, self-sacrificing efforts and zeal in seeking a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, the symbol of God's presence. This is vividly portrayed in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem") and further elaborated within Psalm 132 itself, particularly in [Psalms 132:3-5](/psalms/132-3-5 "Psalm 132:3-5 - David's Vow for God's Dwelling"). The psalmist is appealing to God's faithfulness, reminding Him of David's profound devotion as a basis for God's continued blessing upon his lineage and the Temple.

**How does God "remember" in the Bible?**

Answer: In biblical theology, God's "remembering" is an active, dynamic concept, distinct from human memory. When the Bible states that God "remembers," it signifies His intention to act on behalf of His covenant promises, His people, or His character. It often precedes a divine intervention or a fulfillment of a promise. For instance, God "remembered" Noah and brought the floodwaters down ([Genesis 8:1](/genesis/8-1 "Genesis 8:1 - God Remembers Noah")), and He "remembered" His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt ([Exodus 2:24](/exodus/2-24 "Exodus 2:24 - God Remembers His Covenant with Israel")). In Psalms 132:1, the plea for God to "remember David" is an appeal for God to continue to uphold and act upon the Davidic Covenant, ensuring the stability of the Davidic dynasty and the presence of His dwelling place in Jerusalem, as promised in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 132:1, with its plea to "remember David, and all his afflictions," finds its ultimate and most profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus, the Son of David. David's zealous "afflictions" in seeking a dwelling place for God foreshadow the infinitely greater "afflictions" of Christ, who truly sought and established God's dwelling among humanity. While David labored to build a physical house for God, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, stating, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" ([John 2:19](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). His ultimate "affliction" on the cross was the supreme act of self-denial and suffering, endured not for a physical structure, but to establish the spiritual dwelling place of God—His Church—composed of believers from every tribe and tongue ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as God's Dwelling Place")). Furthermore, the Davidic Covenant, which promised an eternal kingdom and a perpetual heir, is fulfilled in Jesus, who is the promised Messiah, the eternal King whose kingdom has no end ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary")). God's "remembrance" of David's devotion culminates in His active remembrance of Christ's perfect obedience and sacrifice, ensuring the eternal reign of His Son and the everlasting presence of His Spirit within His people, the new Jerusalem, the true city of God ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling Place with Man")).

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

Psalms 120:1

¶ A Song of degrees. In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.

Psalms 129:1

¶ A Song of degrees. Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth, may Israel now say:

Genesis 8:1

¶ And God remembered Noah, and every living thing, and all the cattle that [was] with him in the ark: and God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters asswaged;

Lamentations 5:1

¶ Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach.

Psalms 121:1

¶ A Song of degrees. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

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.

Psalms 126:1

¶ A Song of degrees. When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.