Psalms 122:1
I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
שָׂ֭מַחְתִּי
I was glad
H8055
שָׂ֭מַחְתִּי
I was glad
Strong's:
H8055
Word #:
1 of 6
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
בֵּ֖ית
into the house
H1004
בֵּ֖ית
into the house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
4 of 6
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Cross References
Psalms 84:10For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.Micah 4:2And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.Isaiah 2:3And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.Psalms 134:1Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD.Psalms 120:1In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.Psalms 128:1Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.Psalms 121:1I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.Psalms 123:1Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens.Psalms 55:14We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.Psalms 125:1They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever.
Historical Context
David established Jerusalem as Israel's political and religious capital, bringing the ark of the covenant to the city (2 Samuel 6). Though David couldn't build the temple (2 Chronicles 6:7-9), he made extensive preparations for it and instituted worship practices. This psalm reflects the joy of pilgrims approaching Jerusalem for the annual feasts, a practice that would continue for centuries.
Questions for Reflection
- What produces genuine gladness about corporate worship versus mere religious obligation?
- How does the invitation of others ('they said unto me') spark our own worship enthusiasm?
- In what ways has your joy in worship increased or decreased over time, and why?
- How does David's eagerness for God's house challenge modern attitudes toward church attendance?
- What New Testament principles build on this Old Testament delight in corporate worship?
Analysis & Commentary
David's joy at the prospect of worship is palpable: 'I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.' The Hebrew 'samachti' (I was glad) conveys deep, exuberant joy - not mere obligation or routine but enthusiastic delight. The plural 'they said' indicates corporate worship; faith thrives in community, not isolation. The phrase 'house of the LORD' refers to the tabernacle in David's time (the temple would be built by Solomon), representing God's dwelling among His people. This verse establishes that authentic worship flows from heartfelt joy, not compulsion. The call to worship originates from fellow believers, demonstrating the church's role in stirring affection for God. True worship begins with glad anticipation, not grudging compliance.