Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 125

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

The psalmist expresses the community's trust in the Lord's protection (Psalm 125:1–2) and prays for peace (125:3–5).

surrounds: God guards and protects like a wall of fire (Zechariah 2:5).

The godly may be tempted to abandon God’s ways because of pressure from others or from the surrounding culture.

People who do not follow the "straight paths" are foolish (Proverbs 2:12–15). God gives his goodness to the godly (see Psalm 122:6–9).