Psalms 132:7

KJV

We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.

KJV (with Strong's)

We will go {H935} into his tabernacles {H4908}: we will worship {H7812} at his footstool {H1916}{H7272}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let's go into his dwelling and prostrate ourselves at his footstool.

Berean Standard Bible

Let us go to His dwelling place; let us worship at His footstool.

American Standard Version

We will go into his tabernacles; We will worship at his footstool.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 132:7 expresses the fervent desire and communal intention of the Israelite pilgrims to enter God's sacred dwelling place and offer worship. It encapsulates the culmination of their journey to Jerusalem, emphasizing the active pursuit of God's presence and the humble reverence due to Him in His holy sanctuary, whether the Tabernacle or the Temple. This verse is a declaration of devotion, reflecting the people's commitment to honor God in the place He has chosen to make His name dwell.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 132 is a pivotal "Song of Ascents" (Psalms 120-134), sung by pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the annual festivals. This particular psalm stands out for its focus on the Davidic covenant and the establishment of God's dwelling in Zion. The psalm is structured around two divine oaths: David's solemn vow to find a resting place for the Ark of the Covenant (verses 1-5) and God's unwavering promise to David concerning his perpetual dynasty and the eternal presence of the Lord in Zion (verses 11-18). Verse 7, "We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool," serves as a communal response and declaration, articulating the people's eager participation in David's vision and their commitment to worship God in the newly established sanctuary, which was a central theme throughout [Psalms 132](/psalms/132 "Psalm 132 - God's Dwelling in Zion").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this psalm is deeply rooted in the history of Israel, particularly the period following David's conquest of Jerusalem and his desire to bring the Ark of the Covenant, the symbol of God's presence, to the city. Before David, the Ark had no permanent home, residing in various temporary locations (e.g., [1 Samuel 7:1](/1_samuel/7-1 "The Ark at Kiriath-Jearim")). David's zealous pursuit of a dwelling for the Ark, as recounted in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem"), culminated in its placement in a tent in Jerusalem, foreshadowing Solomon's Temple. The "tabernacles" refer to these sacred dwelling places, initially the portable Tabernacle and later the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. The "footstool" likely refers to the Ark of the Covenant itself, or the mercy seat atop it, which was considered the earthly throne of God's presence, or more broadly, the inner sanctuary (Holy of Holies) where the Ark resided. Pilgrimage to Jerusalem for festivals like Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles was a central aspect of Israelite worship, fostering a communal identity and reinforcing their covenant relationship with God.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 132:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Intentional Worship**, demonstrating that approaching God is not passive but a deliberate, active, and communal endeavor. The "we will go" emphasizes a purposeful pilgrimage towards the divine presence. Secondly, it underscores the **Significance of God's Dwelling Place**, whether the Tabernacle or the Temple, as the chosen locus of His presence among His people. This physical space served as a tangible reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His desire to dwell with humanity. Thirdly, the act of "worship at his footstool" conveys profound **Reverence and Humility** before the sovereign God, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness. This imagery resonates with the broader biblical understanding of God's majesty, as seen in [Isaiah 66:1](/isaiah/66-1 "God's Throne and Earth His Footstool"), where heaven is His throne and the earth His footstool. Finally, the verse is deeply embedded in the theme of **Covenant Loyalty**, reflecting the people's reciprocal commitment to God's covenant promises, particularly those made to David concerning his lineage and the eternal dwelling of God in Zion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **go (Hebrew, _bôwʼ'_):** This primitive root signifies a wide variety of applications related to movement, including "to come," "to enter," or "to apply." In Psalms 132:7, "we will go" (H935, bôwʼ) is a volitional declaration, emphasizing a deliberate and active movement towards God's dwelling. It is not a passive arrival but an intentional journey, reflecting the pilgrims' purposeful ascent to Jerusalem and their eager anticipation of entering the sacred space.
* **tabernacles (Hebrew, _mishkân'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to dwell," this term (H4908, mishkân) refers to a residence or dwelling place. While it can denote a shepherd's hut or even an animal's lair, its specific use here, in the context of divine worship, refers to the sacred dwelling place of God. This primarily signifies the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary constructed in the wilderness, and by extension, the Temple in Jerusalem, which served as its permanent successor. It represents the physical locus where God's presence was uniquely manifested among His people.
* **worship (Hebrew, _shâchâh'_):** This primitive root (H7812, shâchâh) means "to depress" or "to prostrate," especially in homage to royalty or God. It conveys the act of bowing down, falling flat, or doing obeisance, indicating profound humility, reverence, and submission. To "worship" at God's footstool implies an act of deep adoration and submission, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness through physical posture and heartfelt devotion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"We will go into his tabernacles":** This clause expresses a collective, determined intention. The plural "we" signifies the community of pilgrims, united in their purpose to enter God's sacred dwelling place. The "tabernacles" (plural, though often referring to a singular dwelling place, perhaps emphasizing its various chambers or the collective presence of God's people within it) represent the sanctuary where God's presence was uniquely manifested. This "going" is an active pilgrimage, a physical and spiritual journey towards the divine presence, motivated by devotion and expectation.
* **"we will worship at his footstool":** This second clause specifies the purpose of their entry: to worship. The "footstool" is a powerful metaphorical image for a place of humble reverence before God's throne. In the context of the Israelite sanctuary, it most likely refers to the Ark of the Covenant, specifically the mercy seat, which was considered the earthly throne or "footstool" of God's invisible presence. To worship "at his footstool" signifies approaching God with profound humility, adoration, and submission, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness. It implies a posture of complete surrender and reverence in the presence of the Almighty.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 132:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. **Communal Declaration** is evident in the repeated use of "we will," emphasizing the unified intent and corporate devotion of the pilgrims. This collective voice underscores the shared spiritual journey and the communal nature of Israelite worship. **Symbolism** is central, with "tabernacles" symbolizing God's chosen dwelling place among His people, representing His presence, accessibility, and covenant faithfulness. The "footstool" functions as a potent **Metaphor**, representing the Ark of the Covenant or the Holy of Holies, serving as a tangible symbol of God's invisible throne and sovereign authority. This metaphor evokes a sense of profound reverence and humility, as one approaches the very presence of the Almighty. The imagery is rich, inviting the worshipper to envision themselves in a posture of humble adoration before the divine King.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 132:7 profoundly articulates the human longing for divine presence and the appropriate posture of worship. It underscores the theological truth that God desires to dwell among His people, providing a sacred space for communion and adoration. The "tabernacles" and "footstool" represent the tangible manifestations of God's immanence, yet also His transcendence, demanding humility from those who approach Him. This verse speaks to the intentionality required in worship, emphasizing that true devotion involves an active pursuit of God and a humble acknowledgment of His supreme majesty. It prefigures the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity, a theme that culminates in the New Testament vision of a new heaven and new earth.

* [Isaiah 66:1](/isaiah/66-1 "God's Throne and Earth His Footstool") - God declares heaven is His throne and the earth His footstool, emphasizing His vast dominion and the humility required in approaching Him.
* [John 4:23-24](/john/4-23 "Worship in Spirit and Truth") - Jesus teaches that true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, transcending physical locations and emphasizing the internal disposition of the heart.
* [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "God's Dwelling Among Humanity") - This passage describes the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to dwell with humanity, where "the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 132:7, though rooted in ancient Israelite worship, offers timeless principles for contemporary believers. While we no longer approach a physical tabernacle or ark, the call to actively seek God's presence and worship Him with humility remains paramount. Our spiritual journey should be characterized by an intentional "going" towards God, whether in corporate gatherings, personal devotion, or service. The Holy Spirit now indwells believers, making our bodies temples of God ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), yet the principle of reverent approach to a holy God endures. True worship involves both seeking His presence and prostrating ourselves in humility and adoration, acknowledging His sovereignty over all creation and our dependence on His grace. This verse reminds us that worship is not merely an activity but a posture of the heart, a deliberate act of love and submission to the One who deserves all glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How intentional is my pursuit of God's presence in my daily life and corporate worship?**
* **What does it mean for me to "worship at His footstool" in a contemporary context, recognizing God's majesty and my humility before Him?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and awe in my personal and communal worship?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "tabernacles" in this verse, considering the singular Tabernacle or Temple?**

Answer: The term "tabernacles" (Hebrew: *mishkanot*) is plural, which can be interpreted in several ways. It may refer to the various sacred chambers or courts within the Tabernacle/Temple complex, emphasizing the entirety of the holy dwelling. Alternatively, it could be a plural of majesty, referring to the singular divine dwelling place in a grander sense. Most profoundly, it signifies the sacred space where God's presence was uniquely manifested among His people, initially the portable Tabernacle and later the permanent Temple in Jerusalem. It represents the chosen locus for divine-human encounter and communal worship, a place where God's glory was revealed and His covenant faithfulness celebrated, as seen in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Let Them Make Me a Sanctuary, That I May Dwell Among Them").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 132:7 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The desire to "go into his tabernacles" and "worship at his footstool" points to the longing for God's presence, a longing perfectly met in the Incarnation. Jesus is the true and ultimate "Tabernacle" (or "tent") of God among humanity, for in Him, "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). He is the greater and more perfect Tabernacle, not made with human hands, through whom we now have direct access to God ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Christ, the Greater and More Perfect Tabernacle")). The "footstool" of God's presence, once a physical location, is now spiritually accessed through Christ's atoning work. Through His sacrifice, believers are invited to "draw near with confidence to the throne of grace" ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")), for He has opened a new and living way into the very presence of God. Thus, our worship is no longer confined to a physical structure but is offered in spirit and truth through Christ, who enables us to have "access by one Spirit to the Father" ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Access to the Father Through One Spirit")). He is the ultimate dwelling place and the means by which we truly worship at God's feet.

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 99:5

Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; [for] he [is] holy.

Psalms 5:7

¶ But as for me, I will come [into] thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: [and] in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.

Lamentations 2:1

¶ How hath the Lord covered the daughter of Zion with a cloud in his anger, [and] cast down from heaven unto the earth the beauty of Israel, and remembered not his footstool in the day of his anger!

Psalms 118:19

¶ Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, [and] I will praise the LORD:

Psalms 122:1

¶ A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.

Psalms 66:13

¶ I will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows,

Psalms 66:14

Which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble.