87
A song. A psalm of the descendants of Korah.
1 The Lord founded the city on his holy mountain.
2 Jerusalem is the city that the Lord loves more than any other city in Israel.*
3 Many wonderful things are said of you, city of God! Selah.
4 I mention Egypt† and Babylon as those who know me, and in addition Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia—“this man was born there.”‡
5 It will be said concerning Jerusalem, “Everyone was born there,”§ and the Most High will make it secure.
6 When the Lord registers the nations, he will write, “They were born there.”* Selah.
7 Singers and dancers alike say, “Living here I am at home.”†
* 87:2 “Israel”: literally, Jacob. † 87:4 Literally, “Rahab.” ‡ 87:4 The meaning of this verse is debated. What it seems to be saying is that despite the patriotism for each country/city mentioned, the best is to be born in Jerusalem. (See following verse.) § 87:5 In other words, everyone will have the right to citizenship in Jerusalem. * 87:6 In Jerusalem. † 87:7 Literally, “All of my springs are in you.”