Psalms 84:7

They go from strength to strength, [every one of them] in Zion appeareth before God.

They go {H3212}{H8799)} from strength {H2428} to strength {H2428}, every one of them in Zion {H6726} appeareth {H7200}{H8735)} before God {H430}.

They go from strength to strength and appear before God in Tziyon.

They go from strength to strength, until each appears before God in Zion.

They go from strength to strength; Every one of them appeareth before God in Zion.

Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 84:7 (KJV)

Psalms 84:7, "They go from strength to strength, [every one of them] in Zion appeareth before God," is a profound verse that speaks to the spiritual journey and the blessedness of drawing near to God. It captures the essence of a pilgrimage, both physical and spiritual, towards the divine presence.

Context

Psalm 84 is a "Psalm of the Sons of Korah" and is widely regarded as a pilgrim psalm, expressing the deep longing of the worshipper for God's dwelling place, the Temple in Jerusalem (often referred to as Zion). The preceding verses describe the blessedness of those who dwell in God's house and those whose hearts are set on pilgrimage to it, even passing through the "valley of Baca" (weeping) and turning it into a place of springs (Psalm 84:6). This longing for the courts of the Lord (Psalm 84:2) underscores the devotion and purpose behind the journey described in verse 7. The context highlights the joy and spiritual refreshment found in the presence of God.

Key Themes

  • Progressive Spiritual Growth: The phrase "strength to strength" signifies a continuous, upward progression in spiritual vitality and endurance. It suggests that as believers journey towards God, they do not grow weary but rather gain increasing power and capacity. This is not static faith but a dynamic, growing relationship.
  • Divine Empowerment: The strength mentioned is not merely human resolve but divine enablement. It implies that God Himself empowers the pilgrim through their journey, sustaining and strengthening them at every stage. This resonates with the promise of those who wait upon the Lord renewing their strength.
  • The Goal of God's Presence: The ultimate destination and purpose of this spiritual progression is to "appear before God in Zion." Zion here represents God's holy dwelling place, where His presence is uniquely manifested. The journey's end is intimacy and communion with the Almighty.
  • The Blessedness of Worship: The entire psalm, and this verse in particular, celebrates the profound blessing and satisfaction derived from being in God's presence and participating in His worship.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "strength to strength" is chayil el chayil (ื—ึทื™ึดืœ ืึถืœ ื—ึธื™ึดืœ). The word chayil can mean "strength," "power," "valor," "army," or "wealth." In this context, it powerfully conveys the idea of moving from one level of spiritual vigor or power to another, continuously increasing. It implies that each step of the journey, each challenge overcome, builds resilience and prepares the pilgrim for the next stage, culminating in a stronger encounter with God. "In Zion appeareth before God" uses the Hebrew yera'eh el Elohim (ื™ึตืจึธืึถื” ืึถืœ ืึฑืœึนื”ึดื™ื), meaning "is seen by God" or "appears before God," emphasizing the direct, personal encounter in His holy dwelling place.

Practical Application

Psalms 84:7 offers immense encouragement for believers today.

  1. Embrace the Journey: Life as a Christian is a spiritual pilgrimage. We are called to continuously grow in faith, knowledge, and character. This verse assures us that this growth is progressive and divinely supported.
  2. Reliance on God's Strength: When facing difficulties or feeling inadequate, we are reminded that our strength for the journey comes from God. He empowers us to move forward, even through valleys of weeping.
  3. Focus on the Destination: Our ultimate goal is deeper communion with God, whether in worship here on earth or in eternal fellowship. Every step of our spiritual growth should draw us closer to His presence. As we seek His face, He grants us the strength to continue.
  4. Expect Transformation: Just as the pilgrims were strengthened by their journey to Zion, we can expect to be transformed and invigorated as we press into God's presence through prayer, study of His Word, and fellowship.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 4:18

    But the path of the just [is] as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

  • Isaiah 40:31

    But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

  • 2 Corinthians 3:18

    But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.

  • Job 17:9

    The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger.

  • 2 Peter 3:18

    But grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him [be] glory both now and for ever. Amen.

  • John 1:16

    And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

  • Deuteronomy 16:16

    Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before the LORD empty:
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