Psalms 132 - Introduction

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 132

A Song of degrees. Some think this psalm was written by Solomon, since Psalms 132:8, are much the same with which he concluded his prayer at the dedication of the temple, 2 Chronicles 6:41; on account of which it is supposed to be written; though he might borrow these words from hence, as he sometimes did recite the words of his father, Proverbs 4:4. Others are of opinion that it was written by David, either when he brought the ark from Baale or Kirjathjearim to the house of Obededom, and from thence to Zion, 2 Samuel 6:1; or when he had that conversation with Nathan the prophet, in which he expressed such a strong desire to build a house for God, 2 Samuel 7:1; or, as Aben Ezra and Kimchi think, after he had numbered the people, which brought the pestilence on them; and when he and the elders of Israel were in distress on that account, and he was ordered to build an altar in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite, 1 Chronicles 21:18; by which it appeared to him that this was the place for the house of the Lord God he had been so desirous of building, 1 Chronicles 22:1. It seems by Psalms 132:6, that more persons than one were concerned in this psalm, at least the psalmist represents more; and Theodoret takes it to be a prayer of the captives in Babylon, and a prophecy of the Saviour of the world; and this is favoured by the Syriac inscription, which is,

"an anonymous psalm, when they would build the house of the Lord of hosts; and a prayer of David, and a revelation of Christ.''

And certain it is that Christ is spoken of in it, if not principally designed.