A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song.

“His foundation is in the holy mountains.
The Lord loves the gates of Zion
More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob.
Glorious things are spoken of you,
City of God.” — Selah

Nations Named Among God’s People

“I will mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me;
Behold, Philistia and Tyre with Cush:
‘This one was born there.’”

“But of Zion it will be said,
‘This one and that one were born in her’;
And the Most High Himself will establish her.
The Lord will count when He registers the peoples:
‘This one was born there.’” — Selah

“Then those who sing as well as those who play the flutes will say,
‘All my springs of joy are in you.’”

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Context and Meaning

Psalm 87 is a short yet profoundly prophetic song celebrating Zion—Jerusalem—as the chosen city of God. Unlike psalms of lament or supplication, this one is a declaration of God’s delight and plan for Zion, and how He includes even former enemies in His people.

It anticipates a global recognition of God’s work, where people from far nations are spiritually born into the family of God in Zion—a picture of inclusion, grace, and future glory.

Key Themes:

1. Zion Is God’s Chosen Dwelling: Among all Israel’s cities, God loves Zion most, symbolizing His special presence (v. 1–2).
2. Glorious Things Spoken: Zion is known not for its geography, but for its destiny and God’s presence (v. 3).
3. Former Enemies Become Citizens: Nations like Babylon, Philistia, and Egypt (Rahab) are counted among God’s people—a vision of salvation for all (v. 4–6).
4. True Joy Flows From Zion: All spiritual life and joy spring from God’s presence and redemptive work (v. 7).

Reflection and Impact

Psalm 87 points us beyond physical Jerusalem to the heavenly Zion, the spiritual home of all believers (Hebrews 12:22–24):

• God’s People Are From Every Nation: The new birth brings people from every background into God’s household (Galatians 3:28).
• Zion Represents God’s Presence and Favor: It’s a symbol of spiritual belonging and eternal inheritance.
• Rejoice in Your Spiritual Citizenship: If you’re in Christ, you’re part of the city God delights in—forever.
• True Joy Comes From God’s Dwelling: “All my springs of joy are in you” reminds us that our deepest satisfaction is in God.

Application

• Celebrate Your Inclusion in God’s Family: If you’ve been born again, you are spiritually “born in Zion.”
• Worship God for His Global Grace: Marvel that He includes even the nations once far from Him.
• Let Zion Shape Your Identity: Don’t define yourself by the world’s categories—you belong to the City of God.
• Find Your Joy in God’s Presence: Make the Lord your source of refreshment and delight.

Closing Thought

Psalm 87 declares a joyful future where all nations find their home in Zion.
“This one was born there… All my springs of joy are in you.”