King James Version

What Does Psalms 132:7 Mean?

Psalms 132:7 in the King James Version says “We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool .” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 132 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool .”

Psalms 132:7 · KJV

Context

5

Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob. an habitation: Heb. habitations

6

Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.

7

We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool .

8

Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.

9

Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
A call to worship follows the discovery: 'We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.' The plural 'we' emphasizes corporate action - not individual but communal worship. The phrase 'go into his tabernacles' (plural mishkenot) suggests entering God's dwelling place(s) - possibly the multiple chambers of the future temple or the ark's tabernacle David prepared. 'We will worship' (Hebrew 'shacha') means to bow down, prostrate oneself in reverence. The location 'at his footstool' refers to the ark, specifically the mercy seat where God's presence dwelt between cherubim (1 Chronicles 28:2; Psalm 99:5). The footstool image suggests God's throne in heaven, with earth/ark as His footstool (Isaiah 66:1). Worshiping at His footstool combines reverence (bowing at feet) with access (permitted to approach). This verse celebrates restored worship now that the ark is recovered.

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Historical & Cultural Context

David's bringing the ark to Jerusalem restored centralized worship. The second (successful) attempt involved proper procedures, Levitical carrying, sacrifices, and great celebration (2 Samuel 6:12-19). The ark became focal point for worship until temple was built. The language anticipates Solomon's temple where God's glory would dwell and worshipers would bow before His presence.

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the significance of worshiping at God's 'footstool' rather than His face or throne directly?
  2. How does the call 'we will worship' demonstrate resolution and commitment?
  3. What is the relationship between finding God's presence (v. 6) and worshiping (v. 7)?
  4. How do Christians 'go into His tabernacles' and worship at His footstool today?
  5. What posture of heart accompanies physical bowing in worship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
נָב֥וֹאָה1 of 5

“We will go”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

לְמִשְׁכְּנוֹתָ֑יו2 of 5

“into his tabernacles”

H4908

a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w

נִ֝שְׁתַּחֲוֶ֗ה3 of 5

“we will worship”

H7812

to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)

לַהֲדֹ֥ם4 of 5

“at his footstool”

H1916

a footstool

רַגְלָֽיו׃5 of 5
H7272

a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda

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 132:7 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 132:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 99:5Psalms 5:7Lamentations 2:1Psalms 122:1Psalms 95:6Psalms 118:19

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