Psalms 122:2
Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.
Original Language Analysis
עֹ֭מְדוֹת
shall stand
H5975
עֹ֭מְדוֹת
shall stand
Strong's:
H5975
Word #:
1 of 5
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
הָי֣וּ
H1961
הָי֣וּ
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
2 of 5
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
רַגְלֵ֑ינוּ
Our feet
H7272
רַגְלֵ֑ינוּ
Our feet
Strong's:
H7272
Word #:
3 of 5
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
Historical Context
Jerusalem sat elevated on Mount Zion, requiring pilgrims to 'ascend' to reach it. The city's gates (Damascus Gate, Jaffa Gate, etc.) served as entry points where travelers would first set foot within the holy city. For diaspora Jews, reaching Jerusalem for the feasts represented both physical achievement and spiritual homecoming.
Questions for Reflection
- What emotions accompany the fulfillment of long-anticipated spiritual goals?
- How does physical arrival at Jerusalem serve as metaphor for spiritual arrival in God's presence?
- In what ways do believers today experience 'standing within' God's community?
- How does this verse point forward to the eternal Jerusalem described in Revelation?
- What 'gates' must we pass through to enter fully into worship and fellowship with God?
Analysis & Commentary
The arrival is celebrated: 'Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.' The physical arrival ('our feet...stand') symbolizes stability, security, and accomplishment of journey. Gates represented points of entry, gathering, judgment, and defense in ancient cities. Standing 'within' suggests not just arrival but belonging - being inside the covenant community. 'Jerusalem' means 'foundation of peace' or 'possession of peace,' making it the fitting location for God's dwelling and His people's assembly. The future tense 'shall stand' expresses confident anticipation - the journey isn't complete, but its completion is certain. This verse captures the pilgrim's joy at reaching the destination, foreshadowing the believer's ultimate arrival in the heavenly Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22-24; Revelation 21:2).