Psalms 122:3
Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together:
Original Language Analysis
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֥ם
Jerusalem
H3389
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֥ם
Jerusalem
Strong's:
H3389
Word #:
1 of 6
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
כְּ֝עִ֗יר
as a city
H5892
כְּ֝עִ֗יר
as a city
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
3 of 6
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
Cross References
2 Samuel 5:9So David dwelt in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward.Psalms 147:2The LORD doth build up Jerusalem: he gathereth together the outcasts of Israel.Nehemiah 4:6So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cities were typically compact for defensive purposes, surrounded by walls with tightly packed buildings. Jerusalem's construction on multiple hills required careful engineering to create a cohesive urban space. The city's layout facilitated community life and made the temple accessible to all residents and pilgrims.
Questions for Reflection
- How does physical architecture serve as metaphor for spiritual community?
- What produces 'compactness' or unity among God's people gathered for worship?
- In what ways does modern individualism threaten the 'compact' nature of Christian community?
- How does Paul's use of architectural imagery (Ephesians 2:19-22) develop this psalm's themes?
- What practices strengthen the bonds that hold believers together as one body?
Analysis & Commentary
Jerusalem's unique character is highlighted: 'Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together.' The Hebrew 'chabar' (compact together) means joined, united, bound together - emphasizing architectural and social cohesion. Unlike scattered villages, Jerusalem's tight construction created unity, mutual protection, and concentrated worship. This compactness symbolizes the unity of God's people gathered around His presence. The physical architecture mirrors spiritual reality: believers are 'fitly framed together' (Ephesians 2:21) into a holy temple. The verse celebrates not just the city's stones but the people who gather there as one body. Unity characterizes God's people when they assemble for worship. Division and fragmentation contradict the nature of the church as God designed it.