Psalms 122:5
For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
שָׁ֨מָּה׀
H8033
שָׁ֨מָּה׀
Strong's:
H8033
Word #:
2 of 8
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
יָשְׁב֣וּ
For there are set
H3427
יָשְׁב֣וּ
For there are set
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
כִּ֝סְא֗וֹת
the thrones
H3678
כִּ֝סְא֗וֹת
the thrones
Strong's:
H3678
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, covered, i.e., a throne (as canopied)
לְמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
of judgment
H4941
לְמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
of judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
כִּ֝סְא֗וֹת
the thrones
H3678
כִּ֝סְא֗וֹת
the thrones
Strong's:
H3678
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, covered, i.e., a throne (as canopied)
Cross References
Deuteronomy 17:8If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;2 Chronicles 19:8Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and of the priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the LORD, and for controversies, when they returned to Jerusalem.
Historical Context
Jerusalem became Israel's judicial capital under David. The king and appointed judges heard cases, particularly complex matters that local elders couldn't resolve (1 Kings 3:16-28). The Davidic monarchy represented divine rule on earth. After exile, hope for restoration centered on a descendant of David who would reign justly forever (Isaiah 9:6-7; Jeremiah 23:5-6).
Questions for Reflection
- Why are 'thrones of judgment' located where worship occurs?
- How does earthly judgment point to ultimate divine judgment?
- In what ways does the 'house of David' anticipate Christ's eternal reign?
- What relationship exists between corporate worship and pursuit of justice in community?
- How should awareness of divine judgment shape our approach to worship?
Analysis & Commentary
Jerusalem's judicial role is described: 'For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David.' The word 'thrones' (plural) suggests multiple seats of authority, though united under David's house. Jerusalem served as Israel's legal center where disputes were resolved and justice administered (Deuteronomy 17:8-13). The phrase 'house of David' points to the Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16) promising an eternal throne. Judgment and worship are inseparably linked - God's people gather not only to praise but to receive divine justice. The thrones represent God's delegated authority exercised through His anointed king. This verse anticipates the ultimate Judge, Jesus Christ, David's greater son, whose throne endures forever. Where God dwells, justice reigns; worship and righteousness are never separated.