Psalm 87:4

"I will mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me--along with Philistia, Tyre, and Cush--when I say, 'This one was born in Zion.'"

Study Bible

I will mention
The Hebrew root for "mention" is "זָכַר" (zakar), which means to remember or to call to mind. In the context of this verse, it signifies God's intentional acknowledgment and recognition of certain nations. This is not a casual mention but a deliberate act of inclusion, suggesting that God's plan of salvation and recognition extends beyond Israel to encompass other nations.

Rahab
In biblical literature, "Rahab" is often a poetic name for Egypt. The use of Rahab here symbolizes a powerful nation known for its historical enmity with Israel. Yet, its mention signifies a future where even former adversaries are acknowledged by God as part of His people. This reflects the transformative power of God's grace, which can turn enemies into friends.

Babylon
Babylon represents a significant historical and prophetic symbol in the Bible. Known for its grandeur and its role as an oppressor of Israel, Babylon's inclusion in this verse highlights the universal scope of God's kingdom. It suggests a future reconciliation and redemption, where even those who were once far from God are brought near.

among those who know Me
The phrase "know Me" is derived from the Hebrew "יָדַע" (yada), which implies an intimate, experiential knowledge. This is not mere intellectual assent but a deep, personal relationship with God. The inclusion of foreign nations among those who "know" God underscores the prophetic vision of a diverse, inclusive community of believers.

Philistia
Historically, the Philistines were one of Israel's most persistent enemies. Mentioning Philistia in this context is radical, as it suggests a future where historical hostilities are overcome. It points to a time when former foes are united in the worship of the one true God, illustrating the peace and reconciliation that God's kingdom brings.

Tyre
Tyre was a wealthy and influential city known for its commerce and trade. Its mention here may symbolize the inclusion of the economically powerful and the worldly wise in God's plan. It serves as a reminder that God's grace is not limited by human boundaries of wealth or status.

Cush
Cush, often associated with the region south of Egypt, represents the farthest reaches of the known world at the time. Its inclusion signifies the global reach of God's salvation. It is a prophetic declaration that God's love and redemption extend to the ends of the earth, embracing all peoples and nations.

when I say
This phrase indicates a divine declaration. It is God Himself who speaks, affirming the certainty and authority of the statement. It emphasizes that the inclusion of these nations is not a human initiative but a divine mandate.

‘This one was born in Zion.’
Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual center of God's kingdom. To be "born in Zion" is to be part of God's covenant people. This phrase suggests a spiritual rebirth and inclusion into the community of God's people, regardless of one's ethnic or national origin. It is a powerful testament to the transformative power of God's grace, which transcends all human barriers and divisions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
In this context, Rahab is a poetic name for Egypt, symbolizing a powerful nation. It is often used in the Bible to represent pride and opposition to God.

2. Babylon
A significant empire known for its wealth, power, and opposition to Israel. It represents worldly power and idolatry.

3. Philistia
A region and people who were frequent adversaries of Israel. Known for their conflicts with the Israelites, particularly during the time of King David.

4. Tyre
A wealthy and influential city-state known for its commerce and trade. It had a complex relationship with Israel, sometimes friendly, sometimes adversarial.

5. Cush
Often identified with the region south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. Known for its distant location and sometimes seen as a symbol of the ends of the earth.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Plan of Inclusion
God's plan includes people from all nations, even those historically opposed to Israel. This demonstrates His sovereignty and grace in calling people to Himself.

The Universal Reach of the Gospel
The mention of diverse nations signifies the gospel's reach beyond Israel to all peoples. Believers are called to participate in this mission by sharing the gospel with all nations.

Identity in Christ
The phrase "This one was born in Zion" signifies a new identity for those who come to know God. Believers are spiritually reborn and become part of God's people, regardless of their earthly origins.

Breaking Down Barriers
The inclusion of former enemies highlights the breaking down of barriers through Christ. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of nations like Egypt and Babylon in Psalm 87:4 challenge our understanding of God's grace and mercy?

2. In what ways can we actively participate in God's mission to reach all nations with the gospel, as suggested by the universal scope of Psalm 87:4?

3. How does the concept of being "born in Zion" shape our identity as Christians, and how should it influence our daily lives?

4. What barriers exist in our communities or churches that prevent unity, and how can we work to overcome them in light of the message of Psalm 87:4?

5. How do the themes of inclusion and reconciliation in Psalm 87:4 connect with the teachings of the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 19:23-25
This passage speaks of a future time when Egypt and Assyria will worship the Lord alongside Israel, highlighting the inclusion of former enemies in God's plan.

Revelation 7:9
This verse describes a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God, emphasizing the universal reach of God's salvation.

Galatians 3:28
Paul speaks of the unity in Christ that transcends ethnic and social boundaries, reflecting the theme of inclusion found in Psalm 87:4.