Psalms 132:8
Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.
Original Language Analysis
קוּמָ֣ה
Arise
H6965
קוּמָ֣ה
Arise
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
1 of 6
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
יְ֭הוָה
O LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
O LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
The prayer was fulfilled when Solomon brought the ark into the completed temple (1 Kings 8:6-11; 2 Chronicles 5:7-6:1). God's glory filled the temple, confirming His acceptance of this dwelling. The language of 'rest' echoes Deuteronomy's promise of rest in the land (Deuteronomy 12:9-11; Joshua 21:44; 1 Kings 8:56). God's rest among His people parallels their rest from enemies.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean for God to 'arise into rest' - how can arising be entering rest?
- How does the ark represent God's 'strength,' and why is this emphasized?
- What is the relationship between God's presence and His people's security/blessing?
- How do Christians experience God 'arising into rest' among them?
- In what ways does God's permanent dwelling (temple/church/heaven) differ from temporary dwelling (wilderness tabernacle)?
Analysis & Commentary
A prayer invites God's presence: 'Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.' The imperative 'arise' calls God to action - moving from one location to another. This quotes Numbers 10:35 (Moses' prayer when ark journeyed), now inverted - instead of arising to scatter enemies, God arises to enter rest. The phrase 'into thy rest' (menucha) means resting place, permanent dwelling - contrasting with ark's wandering during wilderness, Philistine captivity, and residence at Kiriath-jearim. The parallel 'thou, and the ark of thy strength' distinguishes yet connects God and ark - God Himself (thou) and the symbol of His presence (ark). The ark is called 'ark of thy strength' (Hebrew 'uzzeka'), emphasizing God's power manifested through it. This prayer asks God to take up permanent residence among His people in Jerusalem/temple. Rest implies settled, stable, enduring presence.