King James Version

What Does Psalms 132:1 Mean?

Psalms 132:1 in the King James Version says “A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions: — study this verse from Psalms chapter 132 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions:

Psalms 132:1 · KJV


Context

1

A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions:

2

How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob;

3

Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed ;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The psalm opens with intercessory appeal: 'LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions.' The imperative 'remember' (Hebrew 'zakar') means to call to mind with intent to act - not merely recalling facts but responding based on memory. The prayer asks God to remember 'David' - the historical king and the Davidic covenant. The phrase 'all his afflictions' refers to David's hardships and sufferings in establishing worship. The word 'afflictions' (Hebrew 'annah') means humbling, suffering, hardship. This likely references David's struggles to bring the ark to Jerusalem and his desire to build God a house (2 Samuel 6-7). The prayer appeals to David's devotion and sacrifice as basis for blessing his descendants and city. This demonstrates a biblical pattern: appealing to the godliness and covenants associated with previous generations as foundation for present petitions.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

David endured significant hardship: fleeing from Saul, establishing kingdom against opposition, warfare, bringing the ark (which involved Uzzah's death, 2 Samuel 6), and planning the temple. God established covenant with David (2 Samuel 7; Psalm 89) promising eternal dynasty. This psalm reflects post-Davidic period (possibly Solomonic or later) when people appealed to Davidic covenant for continued blessing.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to ask God to 'remember' - does God forget?
  2. How do David's afflictions provide basis for petitioning God on behalf of his descendants?
  3. What is the relationship between Davidic covenant and this prayer?
  4. In what ways do Christians appeal to Christ (David's greater son) when approaching God?
  5. How does recognition of previous generations' faithfulness and suffering strengthen present faith?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
זְכוֹר1 of 6

remember

H2142

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

יְהוָ֥ה2 of 6

LORD

H3068

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

לְדָוִ֑ד3 of 6

David

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

אֵ֝ת4 of 6
H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

כָּל5 of 6
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֻנּוֹתֽוֹ׃6 of 6

and all his afflictions

H6031

to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)


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 132:1 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 132:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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