Berean Standard Bible · Public domain

Psalm 87

Israel’s prayers give language for praise, grief, repentance, and trust. Poetry uses imagery and parallel lines; each psalm should be read as a whole rather than as a detached promise.

Historical context & book outline

1A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A song. He has founded His city on the holy mountains.

2The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.

3Glorious things are ascribed to you, O city of God. Selah

4“I will mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me—along with Philistia, Tyre, and Cush—when I say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’”

5And it will be said of Zion: “This one and that one were born in her, and the Most High Himself will establish her.”

6The LORD will record in the register of the peoples: “This one was born in Zion.” Selah

7Singers and pipers will proclaim, “All my springs of joy are in You.”

Read closely

  1. What repeated words, contrasts, or actions stand out in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter fit the surrounding chapters and the book’s purpose?
  3. What did it communicate to its first hearers, before applying it to your life?