Psalms 132:13
For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יְהוָ֣ה
For the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֣ה
For the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
בְּצִיּ֑וֹן
Zion
H6726
בְּצִיּ֑וֹן
Zion
Strong's:
H6726
Word #:
4 of 7
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
Cross References
Hebrews 12:22But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,Psalms 68:16Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell in it for ever.Psalms 87:2The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.Isaiah 14:32What shall one then answer the messengers of the nation? That the LORD hath founded Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it.
Historical Context
God chose Zion/Jerusalem as permanent dwelling place for His name (Deuteronomy 12:5, 11; 1 Kings 8:29; 11:36; 14:21). While the temple was destroyed (586 BC), the site retained significance and was rebuilt. For Christians, Zion's significance transfers to the church and ultimately the heavenly Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22-24; Revelation 21:2-3).
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean that God 'chose' Zion - was this arbitrary or purposeful?
- How does God's 'desire' for Zion demonstrate His love and commitment?
- What is the relationship between God choosing Zion and choosing David's house?
- How do Christians understand Zion's significance after temple destruction?
- In what ways does God 'desire' His people corporately and individually as His dwelling?
Analysis & Commentary
God's choice of Zion is affirmed: 'For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.' The word 'for' provides explanation for why the covenant stands - God has chosen Zion as His dwelling. The verb 'chosen' (bachar) emphasizes divine election - God selected Zion/Jerusalem from all locations. The parallel 'he hath desired it' uses love language (avah) meaning to crave, long for, delight in. God doesn't merely tolerate Zion but passionately desires it. The purpose 'for his habitation' (moshab) means dwelling place, seat, settlement - permanent residence, not temporary visit. This verse establishes theological foundation: Zion matters because God chose it. David's house and God's house are intertwined - Davidic covenant and Zion election are inseparable. God's commitment to Zion guarantees commitment to David's line.