A Psalm of the sons of Korah.
The sons of Korah were a group of Levitical singers and musicians, descendants of Korah, who was a Levite that led a rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16). Despite Korah's rebellion, his descendants were spared and became prominent in temple worship (1 Chronicles 6:31-38). This background highlights themes of redemption and grace, as God used the descendants of a rebel to lead in worship. The Psalms attributed to them often focus on the majesty of God and the beauty of His dwelling place.

A song.
This designation indicates that the Psalm was intended to be sung, reflecting its use in worship and liturgical settings. Songs in ancient Israel were a means of teaching theology, expressing communal identity, and reinforcing cultural values. The musical aspect underscores the joy and celebration associated with the themes of the Psalm.

He has founded His city on the holy mountains.
The "city" refers to Jerusalem, often called Zion, which holds a central place in biblical theology as the chosen dwelling place of God (Psalm 132:13-14). The "holy mountains" emphasize the city's divine selection and sanctity. Geographically, Jerusalem is situated on a series of hills, with Mount Zion being one of the most significant. This location is not only strategic but also symbolic of God's protection and presence. Theologically, the founding of the city on holy mountains signifies God's sovereign choice and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. This phrase also connects to prophecies about the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2), symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan for His people. The mountains can be seen as types of Christ, representing strength, stability, and the place where God meets humanity.

The LORD loves the gates of Zion
This phrase highlights God's special affection for Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, the city chosen by God as His dwelling place. Zion represents the spiritual center of Israel, where the Temple was located, signifying God's presence among His people. The gates of Zion symbolize access to God's presence and the community of believers. In biblical context, gates were places of judgment, commerce, and social interaction, making them central to city life. This love for Zion foreshadows the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21, where God's presence will dwell eternally with His people. Zion is also a type of Christ, as Jesus is the cornerstone of the spiritual Zion, the Church.

more than all the dwellings of Jacob
This phrase contrasts Zion with the broader land of Israel, referred to as the dwellings of Jacob. Jacob, later named Israel, represents the twelve tribes and the entire nation. While God loves all of Israel, His particular affection for Zion underscores its unique role in His redemptive plan. Historically, Zion was the site of significant events, such as David's establishment of his kingdom and Solomon's building of the Temple. This preference for Zion over other locations in Israel points to the centrality of worship and God's covenant relationship with His people. It also prefigures the coming of Christ, who fulfills the role of the Temple as the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity.

Glorious things are ascribed to you
This phrase highlights the honor and majesty attributed to the city of God, which is Jerusalem. Throughout the Bible, Jerusalem is depicted as a central place of God's presence and divine activity. The "glorious things" refer to the spiritual significance and the prophetic promises associated with the city. Jerusalem is often seen as the focal point of God's redemptive plan, where significant events in biblical history occurred, such as the establishment of the Davidic kingdom and the location of the Temple. In a broader sense, these "glorious things" can also be seen as foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, who is often associated with Jerusalem in His earthly ministry and future return.

O city of God
Jerusalem is referred to as the "city of God," emphasizing its unique status as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. This designation underscores the city's spiritual importance rather than its political or economic status. In biblical history, Jerusalem was chosen as the site for the Temple, where God's presence was manifested in a special way. The city is also central to eschatological prophecies, where it is depicted as the place where God will establish His eternal kingdom. Theologically, Jerusalem represents the idea of God's chosen people and His covenant relationship with them. In the New Testament, the concept of the "city of God" is expanded to include the heavenly Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Selah
The term "Selah" is a Hebrew word found frequently in the Psalms, often interpreted as a musical or liturgical pause. It invites the reader or listener to reflect on the preceding words, emphasizing their significance. In this context, "Selah" encourages contemplation of the profound truths about the city of God and its glorious attributes. It serves as a moment to meditate on the spiritual and prophetic implications of Jerusalem's role in God's plan. The use of "Selah" here suggests a pause to consider the weight of the divine promises and the future hope associated with the city of God.

I will mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me—
Rahab here is a poetic name for Egypt, often used in the Old Testament to symbolize pride and opposition to God (Isaiah 30:7). Babylon represents a powerful empire known for its idolatry and oppression of Israel. The mention of these nations signifies God's sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. It suggests a future where even traditional enemies of Israel will come to acknowledge the Lord. This foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in the covenant community, a theme expanded in the New Testament (Ephesians 2:11-22).

along with Philistia, Tyre, and Cush—
Philistia and Tyre were neighboring regions often in conflict with Israel. Philistia was known for its military strength, while Tyre was a wealthy trading city. Cush, often identified with modern-day Ethiopia, represents distant lands. The inclusion of these nations indicates a universal recognition of God, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. This reflects the prophetic vision of nations coming to worship God (Isaiah 2:2-4).

when I say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’
Zion, a term for Jerusalem, symbolizes the spiritual center of God's kingdom. The phrase "This one was born in Zion" implies a spiritual rebirth or adoption into God's people, regardless of ethnic origin. This anticipates the New Testament teaching of being "born again" (John 3:3) and the concept of the heavenly Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22). It points to the idea that true citizenship in God's kingdom is not based on physical birth but on spiritual rebirth through faith.

And it will be said of Zion:
Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, is a central location in biblical history and prophecy. It represents the spiritual and physical center of God's kingdom on earth. In the Old Testament, Zion is the site of the Temple, the dwelling place of God among His people. This phrase indicates a future proclamation, suggesting a time when Zion will be recognized for its divine significance. The prophetic nature of this statement points to the eschatological hope of Zion's ultimate redemption and glory, as seen in passages like Isaiah 2:2-3 and Revelation 21:2.

“This one and that one were born in her,
This phrase emphasizes the idea of spiritual rebirth and belonging. It suggests that people from various backgrounds will be considered native to Zion, highlighting the inclusivity of God's kingdom. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament teaching that believers, regardless of their ethnic or cultural origins, are born again into the family of God (John 3:3-7). It also reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his descendants (Genesis 12:3).

and the Most High Himself will establish her.”
The term "Most High" is a title for God, emphasizing His supreme authority and power. This phrase assures that Zion's establishment is not by human effort but by divine intervention. It underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The establishment of Zion by God Himself is a theme echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 48:8 and Isaiah 14:32, and points to the ultimate establishment of God's eternal kingdom, as seen in Revelation 21:3-4. This also typifies Christ, who is the cornerstone of the spiritual Zion, the Church (Ephesians 2:19-22).

The LORD will record in the register of the peoples:
This phrase suggests divine sovereignty and omniscience, indicating that God keeps a meticulous record of all nations and individuals. The concept of a heavenly register or book is found throughout Scripture, such as in Exodus 32:32-33 and Revelation 20:12, symbolizing God's knowledge and judgment. This register signifies inclusion in God's covenant community, transcending ethnic and national boundaries, and pointing to the ultimate gathering of believers from all nations.

“This one was born in Zion.”
Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual center of God's kingdom. Being "born in Zion" implies a spiritual rebirth or adoption into God's family, not limited to physical descent. This reflects the prophetic vision of Isaiah 2:2-3, where all nations flow to the mountain of the LORD. It also prefigures the New Testament teaching of spiritual rebirth in John 3:3-7 and the concept of the heavenly Jerusalem in Hebrews 12:22-23. This phrase underscores the inclusivity of God's salvation plan, fulfilled in Christ, who unites all believers as citizens of the heavenly Zion.

Selah
Selah is a term used frequently in the Psalms, likely indicating a pause for reflection or musical interlude. It invites the reader to meditate on the profound truth just expressed. In this context, it emphasizes the significance of God's sovereign choice and the spiritual heritage of being part of His people. This pause encourages contemplation of the eternal implications of being recorded in God's register and the privilege of spiritual birth in Zion.

Singers and pipers will proclaim
This phrase suggests a scene of celebration and worship, where music plays a central role. In ancient Israel, music was integral to worship and communal gatherings, often involving singers and musicians playing instruments like pipes. The use of music in worship is seen throughout the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 150) and was a key part of temple worship. The mention of "singers and pipers" indicates a joyful and public declaration, possibly during a festival or a significant religious event. This aligns with the cultural practices of the time, where music was used to express joy and reverence towards God.

“All my springs of joy are in You.”
This phrase metaphorically attributes the source of joy and life to God. In biblical times, springs were vital sources of water, symbolizing life, sustenance, and refreshment. The imagery of springs is used throughout Scripture to represent spiritual nourishment and divine blessing (e.g., Isaiah 12:3, John 4:14). The declaration that all springs of joy are found in God emphasizes the belief that true joy and fulfillment come from a relationship with Him. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who in the New Testament is described as the living water (John 7:37-38), offering eternal life and joy to believers. The phrase underscores the centrality of God as the ultimate source of spiritual vitality and happiness.