Ps. 87:0 THE ARGUMENT This Psalm was doubtless composed after the building of the temple; and, as learned men think, and it seems probable, when the people were newly returned out of Babylon, and laboured under many discouragements about the return of most of their brethren, and the difficulties…

His foundation: whose foundation? Either, 1. The foundation, i.e. the argument or matter, of this Psalm or Song. So these words are thought to be a part of the title, the words lying thus in the Hebrew text, For the sons of Korah, a Psalm or Song whose foundation is in the Holy mountains. But, 1.

The gates, i.e. the city gates, being oft put for cities, as Deut. 15:7, Deut. 16:5, Ps. 9:14. Of Zion; largely so called, as was now said, to wit, of Jerusalem, which was built upon and near Mount Zion.

O Jerusalem, though thou and thy temple are yet in some sort in your ruins, and desolate and contemptible not only to thine enemies, but also in the eyes of thine own people, yet comfort thyself with these great and glorious things foretold concerning thee in the holy prophets, as Isa. 62:1, Isa.

I will make mention, i.e. I will reckon or account them in the number of my children and subjects. Rahab, i.e. Egypt, so called, Ps. 89:10, Isa. 51:9, but whether from its pride, or natural strength, or figure, or shape, is not material.

Of Zion, i.e. of Jerusalem, or the church of God. It shall be said; it shall be mentioned by God, as was said, Ps. 87:4, and it shall be observed and acknowledged by men, as a great and wonderful work of God. This and that man, i.e. men of this and that nation, i.e.

The people; or, his people. So it is only a defect of the pronoun his, which is very frequent, and easily understood out of the foregoing word, the Lord. The sense is, when God, the Maker and Governor of this city, shall take a survey of all his citizens and subjects.

There shall be great rejoicing and praising God, both with vocal and instrumental music, for this glorious and stupendous work of the conversion of the Gentiles. He describes evangelical worship by legal phrases and customs, as the prophets frequently do. In thee, i.e. in Zion, or the church.