King James Version

What Does Psalms 122:3 Mean?

Psalms 122:3 in the King James Version says “Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together:” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 122 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together:”

Psalms 122:3 · KJV

Context

1

A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.

2

Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.

3

Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together:

4

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD.

5

For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. are: Heb. do sit

Read Psalms 122 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jerusalem's unique character is highlighted: 'Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together.' The Hebrew 'chabar' (compact together) means joined, united, bound together - emphasizing architectural and social cohesion. Unlike scattered villages, Jerusalem's tight construction created unity, mutual protection, and concentrated worship. This compactness symbolizes the unity of God's people gathered around His presence. The physical architecture mirrors spiritual reality: believers are 'fitly framed together' (Ephesians 2:21) into a holy temple. The verse celebrates not just the city's stones but the people who gather there as one body. Unity characterizes God's people when they assemble for worship. Division and fragmentation contradict the nature of the church as God designed it.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern cities were typically compact for defensive purposes, surrounded by walls with tightly packed buildings. Jerusalem's construction on multiple hills required careful engineering to create a cohesive urban space. The city's layout facilitated community life and made the temple accessible to all residents and pilgrims.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does physical architecture serve as metaphor for spiritual community?
  2. What produces 'compactness' or unity among God's people gathered for worship?
  3. In what ways does modern individualism threaten the 'compact' nature of Christian community?
  4. How does Paul's use of architectural imagery (Ephesians 2:19-22) develop this psalm's themes?
  5. What practices strengthen the bonds that hold believers together as one body?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֥ם1 of 6

“Jerusalem”

H3389

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

הַבְּנוּיָ֑ה2 of 6

“is builded”

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

כְּ֝עִ֗יר3 of 6

“as a city”

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

שֶׁחֻבְּרָה4 of 6

“that is compact”

H2266

to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate

לָּ֥הּ5 of 6
H0
יַחְדָּֽו׃6 of 6

“together”

H3162

properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly

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 122:3 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 122:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 5:9Ephesians 2:20-21Psalms 147:2Nehemiah 4:6Revelation 21:10-27Ephesians 4:4-7

Places in This Verse

JerusalemSettlement · Modern: Jerusalem · 31.78°N, 35.23°E955 verses across 37 books
View all places in Psalms 122 →

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