Psalms 87:3

KJV

Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

Glorious things {H3513}{H8737)} are spoken {H1696}{H8794)} of thee, O city {H5892} of God {H430}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Glorious things are said about you, city of God. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

Glorious things are ascribed to you, O city of God. Selah

American Standard Version

Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 87:3 is a powerful declaration celebrating the unique, divinely ordained honor and destiny of Jerusalem, often referred to as Zion, the "city of God." It emphatically proclaims that "glorious things" are spoken of this sacred metropolis, underscoring its unparalleled status not merely as a geographical location, but as God's chosen dwelling place, the epicenter of His redemptive purposes, and a spiritual beacon for all nations. This verse serves as a profound affirmation of God's special favor upon Zion, inviting deep theological reflection on its multifaceted significance both for ancient Israel and as a prophetic foreshadowing of the New Jerusalem.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 87 belongs to a distinct genre known as the "Songs of Zion" (e.g., [Psalm 46](/psalms/46 "Psalm 46 - God Our Refuge") and [Psalm 48](/psalms/48 "Psalm 48 - Great Is the Lord")), which exalt Jerusalem's unique standing as the Lord's chosen city. The psalm opens by establishing God's profound personal investment in Zion, declaring, "His foundation is in the holy mountains. The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob" ([Psalms 87:1-2](/psalms/87-1-2 "Psalm 87:1-2 - God's Love for Zion")). This immediate assertion of divine affection and preference sets a tone of unparalleled significance for the city. Verse 3, "Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah," functions as a direct, emphatic address and a foundational statement, upon which the subsequent verses build, describing various nations being "born" in Zion, thereby signifying its universal spiritual significance and future inclusion of Gentiles.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem, known interchangeably as Zion, was far more than just the political capital of the Israelite kingdom; it was the spiritual heartland, housing the Temple, which was believed to be the earthly dwelling place of God's presence. Its strategic location on the Judean mountains offered natural defenses, yet its true security was understood to be rooted in divine protection and election. The concept of Zion as the "city of God" was deeply interwoven with Israelite national and religious identity, symbolizing God's covenant faithfulness, His abiding presence among His people, and the locus of His redemptive activity. This psalm likely reflects a period of national pride and spiritual confidence, possibly composed for a pilgrimage festival or in celebration of a significant deliverance, when the people gathered to acknowledge Jerusalem's unique role as the center of their faith and the place where God's glory resided. The term "Selah" at the verse's conclusion, common in the Psalms, suggests a musical interlude or a call for meditative reflection, underscoring the profound weight of the preceding declaration.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several core themes central to the psalm and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Election and Favor**, emphasizing that Zion's inherent glory and honor are not self-derived but spring entirely from God's deliberate choice and profound love for it, a concept echoed in God's choosing of Israel as His treasured possession, as seen in [Deuteronomy 7:6](/deuteronomy/7-6 "Deuteronomy 7:6 - Israel, a Chosen People"). Secondly, it underscores **Inherent Glory and Honor**, asserting that the "glorious things" spoken of Zion are not fleeting compliments but weighty, substantial declarations of divine truth, reflecting its intrinsic value as God's chosen dwelling place. This theme resonates with the descriptions of the glory filling the Tabernacle and Temple (e.g., [1 Kings 8:11](/1_kings/8-11 "1 Kings 8:11 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple")). Finally, the verse introduces a strong element of **Prophetic Foreshadowing**, hinting at a universal spiritual significance for Zion that transcends its physical boundaries, pointing towards the future inclusion of all nations in God's kingdom and ultimately to the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Jerusalem"), the eternal city of God where His people will dwell.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glorious (Hebrew, _kâbad'_):** (H3513) This primitive root means "to be heavy," "to be weighty," "to be honored," or "to be glorious." In the context of "glorious things," it conveys a sense of substantiality, dignity, and inherent worth. It implies that the declarations concerning Zion are not trivial or superficial, but possess immense gravity, significance, and honor, stemming from God's own character and purpose. These are not merely admirable qualities, but profound, enduring truths that command respect and reverence.
* **Spoken (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** (H1696) This primitive root means "to arrange," "to speak," "to declare," or "to utter." The passive voice ("are spoken") indicates that the "glorious things" originate from an external, authoritative source—namely, God Himself or those divinely inspired. This verb emphasizes the declarative nature of the statement, highlighting that these truths about Zion are not mere human opinions or aspirations, but divinely pronounced realities, carrying the weight of God's own word and promise.
* **Selah (Hebrew, _çelâh'_):** (H5542) This term, appearing frequently in the Psalms, signifies a "suspension (of music)" or a "pause." While its precise musical or liturgical function is debated, it consistently serves as an emphatic marker, prompting the reader or singer to pause, reflect, and meditate deeply on the preceding words. In Psalms 87:3, "Selah" draws attention to the profound weight and eternal significance of the declaration that "glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God," inviting a moment of spiritual contemplation and internalization of this divine truth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Glorious things are spoken of thee":** This opening clause serves as a powerful declarative statement, asserting that the city of Zion is the subject of weighty, honorable, and divinely significant pronouncements. The passive construction ("are spoken") implicitly points to the ultimate author of these declarations—God Himself. It conveys that Zion's reputation and destiny are not self-made but are divinely ordained, celebrated, and affirmed by the Almighty, reflecting its intrinsic value and purpose in His plan.
* **"O city of God":** This is a direct, intimate address to Jerusalem, identifying it by its most profound and unique title. Calling it the "city of God" (ʻîyr ʼĕlôhîym) underscores its exclusive relationship with the Almighty. This designation signifies divine ownership, protection, and the manifest presence of God within its gates, setting Jerusalem apart from all other cities as the chosen place where God has elected to dwell and reveal His glory among His people.
* **"Selah":** As a liturgical and meditative marker, "Selah" punctuates this profound declaration about Zion's glory. It serves as a deliberate pause, inviting the worshiper or reader to halt, absorb, and internalize the weighty truth that Jerusalem is indeed the recipient of such "glorious things" from God. It amplifies the impact of the preceding statement, encouraging a moment of deep reflection on the divine favor and destiny bestowed upon the city.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices that enhance its theological and emotional impact. **Apostrophe** is prominently featured, as the psalmist directly addresses "O city of God," personifying Jerusalem and imbuing it with a living presence capable of being spoken to and about. This direct address heightens the intimate and profound nature of the declaration. The phrase "Glorious things are spoken of thee" utilizes **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extraordinary nature of God's favor and the city's divinely conferred honor, suggesting an abundance of praise and future promise that transcends ordinary human commendation. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **Declarative Statement**, asserting a profound and undeniable truth about Zion's identity and destiny. The inclusion of "Selah" acts as a **Rhetorical Pause**, strategically placed to compel the listener or reader to meditate deeply on the weighty implications of the "glorious things" affirmed, amplifying the verse's spiritual resonance and encouraging contemplative worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 87:3 profoundly speaks to God's sovereign election and the inherent value He places on His chosen dwelling place and, by extension, His people. The "glorious things" spoken of Zion are not mere human accolades but divine declarations of its unique status as the "city of God." This highlights God's particular love for Zion, a love that extends beyond the physical city to encompass the spiritual community of His people, whether ancient Israel or the Church. It foreshadows a future where God's presence and glory will be fully realized, not just in a specific geographical location, but in a redeemed community that transcends earthly boundaries. This verse assures believers of God's faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate plan for His people, fostering hope in the divine blueprint for an eternal dwelling place of righteousness and peace.

* [Isaiah 60:14](/isaiah/60-14 "Isaiah 60:14 - Zion as the City of the Lord")
* [Hebrews 12:22](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22 - The Heavenly Jerusalem")
* [Revelation 21:2](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descending")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 87:3 invites contemporary believers to consider their identity and ultimate hope within God's unfolding eternal plan. Just as ancient Zion was the recipient of divine favor and glorious pronouncements, so too is the Church, as the spiritual "city of God" in the present age, and ultimately the New Jerusalem. This verse reminds us that our true citizenship is not bound by earthly borders but is heavenly, rooted in God's divine election and promises. It encourages us to recognize the profound value God places on His people and His dwelling place, both individually as temples of the Holy Spirit and corporately as the body of Christ. Despite present imperfections or challenges, the Church, as God's chosen assembly, is destined for glory because of His indwelling presence and the "glorious things" He has spoken concerning its ultimate future. This truth should inspire unwavering confidence, profound gratitude, and a renewed commitment to living in light of our divine heritage and eternal destiny, knowing that we are part of a city of which glorious things are spoken.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Zion as the "city of God" inform your view of the Church today and your place within it?**
* **What specific "glorious things" do you believe God speaks over your life, your family, or your local community of faith?**
* **In what ways does the concept of the "New Jerusalem" and its ultimate fulfillment shape your hope and perspective on the future, especially amidst present difficulties?**
* **How can you intentionally create moments of "Selah" in your daily life to pause, reflect, and meditate more deeply on God's promises and His character?**

### FAQ
**What makes Jerusalem "the city of God" and why are "glorious things" spoken of it in Psalms 87:3?**

Answer: Jerusalem earned the profound title "city of God" primarily because it was the divinely chosen location for the Temple, the central sanctuary where God's presence (Shekinah glory) was believed to dwell among His people. It served as the spiritual and political capital of Israel, the place where God established His enduring covenant with David and where His laws and ordinances were proclaimed. The "glorious things" spoken of it refer to the multitude of divine blessings, promises, and declarations concerning its unique and sacred status. These include God's sovereign election of the city, His unwavering love and protection for it (as vividly portrayed in psalms like [Psalm 46](/psalms/46 "Psalm 46 - God Our Refuge") and [Psalm 48](/psalms/48 "Psalm 48 - God's Greatness in Zion")), and the rich prophetic promises of its future role in God's redemptive plan, encompassing the gathering of nations and the ultimate establishment of His eternal kingdom. These are not merely human praises but weighty, divine pronouncements affirming its unparalleled significance in salvation history.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 87:3, with its declaration of "glorious things" spoken of the "city of God," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ and the spiritual reality of the Church. While ancient Jerusalem served as a tangible, physical representation of God's dwelling among His people, it was a shadow pointing to a greater, spiritual reality to come. Jesus Himself is the true and ultimate Temple, the perfect dwelling place of God, in whom "all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of God in Christ")). The "city of God" now extends beyond a physical location to encompass all who are "born again" into God's family through faith in Christ, thereby becoming citizens of a heavenly kingdom whose true allegiance is not to earthly powers but to God (as seen in [Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")). The Church, as the body of Christ, is the spiritual Zion, a holy dwelling place built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone")). The "glorious things" spoken of this spiritual city include the promise of eternal life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the assurance of God's abiding presence, and the call to be a light to the nations ([Matthew 5:14](/matthew/5-14 "Matthew 5:14 - You Are the Light of the World")). Ultimately, this psalm's vision points to the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descending"), the heavenly city where God will dwell with His redeemed people for eternity, a city whose glory is the very glory of God, illuminated not by sun or moon, but by the Lamb who is its lamp ([Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - No Need for Sun or Moon")). Thus, the psalm's profound vision of a glorious city finds its perfect consummation in the person and redemptive work of Christ, and in the eternal destiny of His Church.

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

Ezekiel 36:11

And I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and bring fruit: and I will settle you after your old estates, and will do better [unto you] than at your beginnings: and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Ezekiel 36:38

As the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Ezekiel 37:27

My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Ezekiel 37:28

And the heathen shall know that I the LORD do sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary shall be in the midst of them for evermore.

Revelation 21:10

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,

Revelation 21:27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Psalms 48:2

Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, [is] mount Zion, [on] the sides of the north, the city of the great King.