Psalm 87:1

His foundation is on the holy mountains.

Study Bible

His foundation
The phrase "His foundation" refers to the establishment and stability that God provides. In Hebrew, the word for foundation is "יְסוֹד" (yesod), which implies a base or support. This foundation is not merely physical but spiritual, representing God's eternal and unshakeable presence. In a conservative Christian perspective, this foundation is seen as the cornerstone of faith, symbolizing Christ Himself, who is often referred to as the cornerstone in the New Testament (Ephesians 2:20). The foundation laid by God is perfect and enduring, offering believers a secure place to build their lives.

is on
The phrase "is on" indicates location and placement, suggesting that God's foundation is firmly established. This preposition in Hebrew, "בְּ" (be), can also mean "in" or "upon," emphasizing the intimate connection between God and the place He has chosen. It signifies that God's presence is not transient but permanently affixed to the location He has sanctified. For believers, this serves as a reminder of God's omnipresence and His active role in the world.

the holy mountains
"The holy mountains" refers to the elevated places that are set apart for God's purposes. In Hebrew, "הַרֵי־קֹדֶשׁ" (harei-qodesh) combines "mountains" (harim) with "holy" (qodesh), indicating a place of divine significance. Historically, mountains have been seen as places where heaven and earth meet, and in the context of Jerusalem, Mount Zion is often considered the most sacred. This phrase underscores the idea that God chooses specific places to manifest His glory and interact with His people. For conservative Christians, the holy mountains symbolize the church, the body of believers, who are called to be set apart and holy. The imagery of mountains also evokes strength, majesty, and permanence, reflecting the nature of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zion (Jerusalem)
The city of God, often referred to as the holy mountain, is central to this verse. It symbolizes God's chosen place for His dwelling and the spiritual center for His people.

2. The Sons of Korah
The authors of this psalm, who were a group of Levitical singers and musicians, responsible for temple worship.

3. The Holy Mountains
Refers to the elevated regions of Jerusalem, emphasizing its spiritual significance and divine selection as the foundation of God's presence.

Teaching Points

God's Chosen Foundation
Just as God chose Zion as His dwelling place, He chooses to dwell within believers today. Reflect on the significance of being a temple of the Holy Spirit.

The Stability of God's Presence
The imagery of a foundation on mountains suggests stability and permanence. Trust in the unchanging nature of God's presence in your life.

Spiritual Significance of Place
While physical locations can hold spiritual significance, remember that true worship is in spirit and truth, transcending geographical boundaries.

The Call to Holiness
As Zion is described as holy, believers are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of Zion as God's foundation influence your understanding of God's presence in your life today?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your life is built on a stable foundation, similar to the holy mountains described in Psalm 87:1?

3. How do the themes of God's chosen place and presence in Psalm 87:1 connect with Jesus' teaching about worship in John 4?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's stability in your life. How does this reinforce the imagery of a foundation on the holy mountains?

5. Considering Hebrews 12's reference to Mount Zion, how can you live out the reality of being part of the heavenly Jerusalem in your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 48
This psalm also speaks of Zion as the city of God, highlighting its beauty and strength as a place of divine presence.

Isaiah 2
This passage describes the mountain of the Lord's house being established as the highest of the mountains, drawing all nations to it, which parallels the idea of Zion's foundational significance.

Hebrews 12
The New Testament speaks of believers coming to Mount Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, connecting the physical location to a spiritual reality for Christians.