Psalms 132:5
Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.
Original Language Analysis
עַד
H5704
עַד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
1 of 7
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
אֶמְצָ֣א
Until I find out
H4672
אֶמְצָ֣א
Until I find out
Strong's:
H4672
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
מָ֭קוֹם
a place
H4725
מָ֭קוֹם
a place
Strong's:
H4725
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
לַיהוָ֑ה
for the LORD
H3068
לַיהוָ֑ה
for the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
4 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
מִ֝שְׁכָּנ֗וֹת
an habitation
H4908
מִ֝שְׁכָּנ֗וֹת
an habitation
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
5 of 7
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
Cross References
Ephesians 2:22In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.1 Chronicles 22:7And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God:2 Chronicles 2:6But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him?
Historical Context
David chose Jerusalem/Mount Moriah as temple site (2 Samuel 24:18-25; 2 Chronicles 3:1). Though Solomon built the temple, David made extensive preparations - gathering materials, organizing workers, securing site, making plans (1 Chronicles 22-29). David's devotion to securing God's dwelling demonstrates proper response to being blessed with personal prosperity - sharing blessing with God's house.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean to 'find out a place for the LORD' when God doesn't need physical dwelling?
- How does David's concern for God's dwelling place demonstrate proper priorities?
- Why does the psalm emphasize 'mighty God of Jacob' in context of finding habitation?
- How do Christians provide 'habitation' for God today (through church buildings, personal holiness, etc.)?
- What does David's zeal teach about investing resources and effort in God's worship?
Analysis & Commentary
The oath's purpose is stated: 'Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.' The word 'until' provides the time limit for the self-denial (vv. 3-4) - ending when the goal is achieved. The phrase 'find out a place' means to discover, locate, secure a suitable location. 'For the LORD' indicates the place is dedicated to divine dwelling. The parallel 'an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob' uses plural 'habitation' (Hebrew 'mishkenot') suggesting multiple chambers or spacious dwelling. The goal is providing worthy dwelling place for God's presence among His people. David's vow commits him to find suitable location and make provisions for temple. Though God ultimately denied David's request to build (2 Samuel 7:12-13), David's devotion and preparations were accepted. The verse reveals David's theological concern - God's transcendent glory deserves better than tent dwelling.