For the LORD has chosen Zion;
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereign choice of Zion, which is another name for Jerusalem. Zion holds a central place in biblical history and theology. It is the city where King David established his kingdom and where Solomon built the temple. The choice of Zion signifies God's special relationship with this location, making it a focal point for His presence and worship. This choice is not based on human merit but on divine will, reflecting God's covenantal promises to Israel. Zion is often seen as a type of the Church, the spiritual dwelling place of God, and is frequently mentioned in prophetic literature as the site of future messianic fulfillment (Isaiah 2:3, Micah 4:2).

He has desired it for His home:
This phrase indicates God's deep affection and intention to dwell in Zion. The concept of God desiring a home among His people is rooted in the idea of the tabernacle and later the temple, where God's presence was manifest. This desire reflects God's commitment to be with His people, providing a place where they can encounter Him. Theologically, this points to the incarnation of Christ, where God dwelt among humanity (John 1:14), and ultimately to the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21:2-3, where God will dwell with His people eternally. The desire for Zion as His home underscores the theme of divine intimacy and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is sovereign and chooses according to His divine will.

2. Zion
A term often used to refer to Jerusalem, the city of David, and the spiritual center of Israel. It symbolizes God's chosen dwelling place among His people.

3. Davidic Covenant
The promise God made to David, ensuring that his lineage would continue and that his throne would be established forever, which is a backdrop to this Psalm.God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses Zion as His dwelling place, demonstrating His sovereign will and purpose. Believers can trust in God's choices and plans for their lives, knowing He desires to dwell with His people.

The Significance of Zion
Zion represents God's presence and His covenant faithfulness. Christians are called to be spiritual "Zion," where God dwells through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of living as a holy and dedicated people.

Desiring God's Presence
Just as God desired Zion for His home, believers should cultivate a desire for God's presence in their lives. This involves regular prayer, worship, and obedience to His Word.

Covenant Faithfulness
The choice of Zion is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises. Christians are encouraged to remain faithful to God, trusting in His promises and His eternal plan.

Eternal Perspective
The earthly Zion points to the heavenly reality. Believers should live with an eternal perspective, focusing on the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the New Jerusalem.(13) Zion.--The dynasty of David and the location of the sanctuary at Zion are intimately associated, as in Psalm 78:67-68. (Comp. Psalm 122:4-5.)

Verse 13. - For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. Here we are brought back again to the temple. Zion, the city of David, was also "the city of the great King" (Psalm 48:2) - the place where he had "set his Name" - which he was bound to protect and cherish. "As truly as God had chosen Zion, and made his habitation there, so certainly must he also raise up for David a branch, through which to his people concentrated there he will impart salvation" (Hengstenberg).

Parallel Commentaries ...


For
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

the LORD
יְהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

has chosen
בָחַ֣ר (ḇā·ḥar)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 977: To try, select

Zion;
בְּצִיּ֑וֹן (bə·ṣî·yō·wn)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 6726: Zion -- a mountain in Jerusalem, also a name for Jerusalem

He has desired
אִ֝וָּ֗הּ (’iw·wāh)
Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular | third person feminine singular
Strong's 183: To incline, desire

it for His home:
לְמוֹשָׁ֥ב (lə·mō·wō·šāḇ)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4186: A seat, assembly, dwelling place, dwelling, dwellers


Psalm 132:13 NIV
Psalm 132:13 NLT
Psalm 132:13 ESV
Psalm 132:13 NASB
Psalm 132:13 KJV

Psalm 132:13 BibleApps.com
Psalm 132:13 Biblia Paralela
Psalm 132:13 Chinese Bible
Psalm 132:13 French Bible
Psalm 132:13 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Psalm 132:13 For Yahweh has chosen Zion (Psalm Ps Psa.)