Psalm 122 explained: Glad to Arrive in Jerusalem

Arriving at the gates (vv. 1-2)

The singer remembers the joy of being invited to travel together to the temple, called here the house of the LORD. Now, after the journey, they are finally standing inside Jerusalem's gates.

A city that holds together (vv. 3-4)

Jerusalem is pictured as tightly built, its buildings joined closely, which many read as an image of a united people. The tribes of Israel came here because their law asked them to gather at the sanctuary for the yearly festivals to give thanks.

Seat of the king's justice (v. 5)

Jerusalem was also where kings from David's family sat to hear cases and give rulings. So it was the center of both worship and government for the nation.

Pray for Jerusalem's peace (vv. 6-7)

The Hebrew word for peace, shalom, echoes the sound of the name Jerusalem, so the prayer plays on the city's own name. The singer asks for safety within its walls and strongholds, which in an ancient city meant protection from attack and calm among the people inside.

Why the singer cares (vv. 8-9)

The singer wishes the city well for the sake of family, friends and the temple of the LORD that stands there. Christians have often read this city as a picture of God's gathered people, or of a heavenly Jerusalem.

Key verse: Psalm 122:6

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether the call to pray for Jerusalem's peace applies mainly to the actual city today or is best read spiritually as a prayer for God's people everywhere.

Something to think about

Is there a place or gathering you feel glad to return to, and what is it about it that draws you back?