Psalms 121:1-6

1 canticum graduum huic David laetatus sum in his quae dicta sunt mihi in domum Domini ibimus

2 stantes erant pedes nostri in atriis tuis Hierusalem

3 Hierusalem quae aedificatur ut civitas cuius participatio eius in id ipsum

4 illic enim ascenderunt tribus tribus Domini testimonium Israhel ad confitendum nomini Domini

5 quia illic sederunt sedes in iudicium sedes super domum David

6 rogate quae ad pacem sunt Hierusalem et abundantia diligentibus te

Psalms 121:1-6 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 121

\\<>\\. The inscription of the Syriac version is, ``one of the songs of ascent out of Babylon.'' Aben Ezra thinks it was composed on account of Israel, when in a siege and distress; or, adds he, on account of the children of our captivity; the present state of the Jews. Grotius is of opinion it was written by David, at the time of the battle with Absalom. Some take it to be a military psalm, proper for soldiers engaged with an enemy: others, that it is suitable for travellers when on a journey; and why not for persons also, when they commit themselves to God in the night watches, and about to take rest? And indeed it is suitable at all times; when the good man may, with the psalmist, expect divine help, and be secure of protection and preservation.