Psalms 132:14
This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.
Original Language Analysis
מְנוּחָתִ֥י
This is my rest
H4496
מְנוּחָתִ֥י
This is my rest
Strong's:
H4496
Word #:
2 of 8
repose or (adverbially) peacefully; figuratively, consolation (specifically, matrimony); hence (concretely) an abode
עַ֑ד
for ever
H5703
עַ֑ד
for ever
Strong's:
H5703
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit
עַ֑ד
for ever
H5703
עַ֑ד
for ever
Strong's:
H5703
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit
אֵ֝שֵׁ֗ב
here will I dwell
H3427
אֵ֝שֵׁ֗ב
here will I dwell
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
Cross References
Psalms 132:8Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.Isaiah 12:6Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.Psalms 135:21Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.Psalms 87:2The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.Psalms 76:2In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.1 Kings 8:13I have surely built thee an house to dwell in, a settled place for thee to abide in for ever.Isaiah 8:18Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.Psalms 68:18Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.Zephaniah 3:17The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.Isaiah 66:1Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?
Historical Context
This promise was fulfilled in Solomon's temple dedication when God's glory filled the house (1 Kings 8:10-11). Though temple was destroyed, God's presence returned to second temple (Haggai 2:7-9). For Christians, God dwells in Christ (John 1:14), the church (1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 2:21-22), and ultimately new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:3).
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's 'rest for ever' mean for His people?
- How does God's choice to dwell with humanity demonstrate grace?
- What is the relationship between God's transcendence (everywhere) and immanence (dwelling in Zion)?
- How has the location of God's dwelling shifted from Zion to church to new creation?
- What does it mean that God 'desires' to dwell with His people?
Analysis & Commentary
God's declaration of permanent residence: 'This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.' The emphatic 'this' points specifically to Zion. The phrase 'my rest for ever' (menucha ad) echoes verse 8's prayer - God answers by committing to eternal dwelling. 'Rest' implies settled, stable, permanent presence versus wandering (wilderness, ark's journey). The declaration 'here will I dwell' is straightforward commitment to location. The verb 'dwell' (yashab) means to sit, remain, inhabit - suggesting permanent settlement. The reason 'for I have desired it' reiterates verse 13 - God's choice flows from His desire/delight. This is remarkable - the transcendent God who created all things chooses to dwell permanently with His people in specific location. Divine presence among people is grace, not necessity.