Psalms 87

A song. A psalm of the descendants of Korah.

1 On the holy mountain

stands the city founded by the Lord.

2 He loves the city of Jerusalem

more than any other city in Israel.*87:2 Hebrew He loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. See note on 44:4.

3 O city of God,

what glorious things are said of you! Interlude

4 I will count Egypt*87:4a Hebrew Rahab, the name of a mythical sea monster that represents chaos in ancient literature. The name is used here as a poetic name for Egypt. and Babylon among those who know me—

also Philistia and Tyre, and even distant Ethiopia.*87:4b Hebrew Cush.

They have all become citizens of Jerusalem!

5 Regarding Jerusalem*87:5 Hebrew Zion. it will be said,

"Everyone enjoys the rights of citizenship there."

And the Most High will personally bless this city.

6 When the Lord registers the nations, he will say,

"They have all become citizens of Jerusalem." Interlude

7 The people will play flutes*87:7 Or will dance. and sing,

"The source of my life springs from Jerusalem!"