King James Version

What Does Psalms 102:16 Mean?

Psalms 102:16 in the King James Version says “When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 102 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory.

Psalms 102:16 · KJV


Context

14

For thy servants take pleasure in her stones, and favour the dust thereof.

15

So the heathen shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth thy glory.

16

When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory.

17

He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.

18

This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God's building of Zion and appearing in glory represent His powerful intervention on behalf of His people. 'Build up' (banah) suggests complete reconstruction, not mere repair. God's glory (kabod) manifesting there signifies His presence returning. This prophecy found partial fulfillment in the return from exile but awaits ultimate consummation in the New Jerusalem (Rev 21:10-11) where God's glory illuminates the city. Christ is both the builder and the glory of God's dwelling place.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah (Neh 2-6) and the temple under Zerubbabel (Ezra 3-6) partially fulfilled this prophecy. However, the prophets anticipated a more glorious restoration in the messianic age.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you see God building His spiritual temple, the church, in your generation?
  2. What does your life as a 'living stone' (1 Pet 2:5) contribute to God's building project?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
כִּֽי1 of 6
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

בָנָ֣ה2 of 6

shall build up

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

יְהוָ֣ה3 of 6

When the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

צִיּ֑וֹן4 of 6

Zion

H6726

tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem

נִ֝רְאָ֗ה5 of 6

he shall appear

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

בִּכְבוֹדֽוֹ׃6 of 6

in his glory

H3519

properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 102:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 102:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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