Read Psalms 87 in the King James Bible (opens in a new tab)
Psalm 87 celebrates Zion as the city founded and loved by the LORD, set apart by His choosing and presence. It declares that “glorious things” are spoken of God’s city, because God Himself establishes it. In a surprising turn, the psalm lists nations once known as enemies (Rahab/Egypt, Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia) and speaks of them as being counted among those who belong—“this man was born there.” The message is not that nations save themselves, but that God’s grace and rule are so great that He can register people from afar as citizens of Zion. The chapter ends with joyful worship: all true springs of life and blessing are found in the LORD’s city, because God is the source.
Psalms 87:1 - 87:7
1 A Psalm [or] Song for the sons of Korah. His foundation [is] in the holy mountains.
2 The Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
3 Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.
4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this [man] was born there.
5 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.
6 The Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people, [that] this [man] was born there. Selah.
7 As well the singers as the players on instruments [shall be there]: all my springs [are] in thee.