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    Psalms 122 (KJV)

    Read Psalms chapter 122 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.

    Psalms 122

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    Psalms 122 Summary

    Psalm 122 expresses joy at being invited to go to the house of the Lord. David describes Jerusalem as a city compact together, where the tribes go up to give thanks and where thrones of justice stand.

    The psalm concludes with a prayer for the peace of Jerusalem, asking for prosperity within its walls. It has become one of the most beloved psalms about worship and community.

    Key Themes

    Joy in worshipJerusalem as center of praisePrayer for peaceCommunity gathering

    Key Verses in Psalms 122

    "I rejoiced with those who said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the LORD.'"

    — Psalms 122:1

    Captures the pure joy of being invited into communal worship.

    "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure.'"

    — Psalms 122:6

    One of the most quoted calls to prayer in Scripture, extending beyond geography to spiritual longing.

    Life Application

    Do you rejoice when invited to worship? Let gathering with God's people be a source of genuine joy, not obligation. And pray for peace wherever God's people gather.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why pray for the peace of Jerusalem?

    Jerusalem represented God's dwelling and the center of worship. Praying for its peace was praying for the flourishing of God's kingdom and His people.

    Psalm 122 Commentary & Reflection

    Praise
    Glad, prayerful

    Best read for: Going to church, praying for your city

    Overview of Psalm 122: I Was Glad When They Said

    Psalm 122 expresses David's joy at the invitation to go to the house of the Lord. Jerusalem is described as a city compact together where the tribes go up to give thanks. David prays for the peace of Jerusalem — 'they shall prosper that love thee' — and for the sake of his brethren and friends, he says 'Peace be within thee.'

    Key Themes

    Joy in Worship
    Jerusalem
    Peace
    Community

    Key Verses to Remember

    “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.”
    — Psalm 122:1 (KJV)
    “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.”
    — Psalm 122:6 (KJV)

    Reflection

    David was glad to go to church — not obligated but delighted. Praying for the peace of Jerusalem means praying for God's purposes to flourish. What community do you need to pray peace over?

    Historical Context

    David's joy at the invitation 'Let us go into the house of the Lord' captures the excitement of pilgrims arriving at Jerusalem's gates. The city 'compact together' symbolizes unity—all tribes gathered in one place for worship. The prayer for Jerusalem's peace (shalom) connects civic welfare with spiritual worship.

    How to Apply Psalm 122 Today

    Pray for your church community with this psalm's enthusiasm. 'I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.' If church attendance has become routine, ask God to restore the gladness. And pray for the 'peace of Jerusalem'—both the physical city and the spiritual body of believers.

    A Prayer from Psalm 122

    I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go into the house of the Lord.' Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: may they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces. For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good. Amen.

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