Psalms 87:4
“I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.”
Psalms 87:4 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- I will be mindful of Rahab and of Babylon knowing me. Behold the foreigners, and Tyre, and the people of the Ethiopians, these were there.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon as among them that know me: Behold, Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia: This one was born there.
- DARBYDarby
- I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon among them thatknow me; behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia: this man was born there.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me. Behold, Philistia, Tyre, and also Ethiopia: This one was born there.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- I mention Rahab and Babel to those knowing Me, Lo, Philistia, and Tyre, with Cush! This one was born there.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know me; behold, Philistia and Tyre, along with Ethiopia; this man was born there.
Context: Psalms 87
2The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
3Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.
4I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.
5And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.
6The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah.
About Psalms 87: The City of God
Psalm 87 is a poetic celebration of the city of God, Zion. The psalmist declares that God loves Zion above all other cities and nations, and gives a list of the peoples who have a special connection to this holy place. The psalm ends with a triumphant declaration that all who are born in Zion are blessed and belong to God.
Commentary
This psalm is a reminder of the special relationship between God and His chosen people. The psalmist speaks of Zion as a place of refuge and salvation, where God dwells among His people. The people of Israel, who were the original inhabitants of Zion, are mentioned in the psalm, as well as those who have come to worship God there from other nations. The psalm also speaks to the idea of being “born in Zion”, which can be interpreted both literally and figuratively. Literal birth in Zion would mean being born in Jerusalem, which was considered the holy city of God. Figuratively, being born in Zion means being born again in Christ, and becoming part of God’s family. Psalm 87 is a beautiful hymn of praise to God, celebrating His love and care for His people. It reminds us of the importance of having a special place of worship and a community of believers to belong to. Ultimately, it reminds us that our true home is in God’s presence.