Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 122

Joy in Worship and Praise for JerusalemThis psalm highlights the happiness and excitement that David and other faithful Israelites felt when they could worship God together. David loved being called to the house of the Lord

v. 3: David praises Jerusalem, saying, Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together . The city is beautiful and well-built, with houses close together and strong. It is a picture of the unity and love God wants in His people, just like the church is meant to be joined together by love (Psalm 48:12 ).

v. 4: He calls Jerusalem the holy city, where all the tribes of Israel gather to worship. Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord

v. 5: Jerusalem is also the royal city, where justice is given. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David . Here, both God’s word and justice are close together. The courts in Jerusalem help protect God’s law, and God’s law guides the courts. This balance makes the city special and secure for everyone who comes to worship and seek justice.

Prayer for the ChurchThis section encourages everyone to pray for the peace and well-being of Jerusalem, which represents God’s people and the place of worship. David calls people to pray for unity and safety within the city, asking God to keep it safe from enemies and full of harmony. Praying for Jerusalem’s peace is not just a tradition; it is an act of love for God’s house and His people. When we pray for the Church’s welfare, we are also seeking blessings for ourselves, because God loves those who love His city. The peace and prosperity of God’s people should be important to every believer.v. 6–7: David says, Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces (Psalm 122:6-7 ). He encourages everyone to pray for the city’s safety and success. We should pray for everyone who lives there, from the poorest to the rulers. When leaders do well, the whole community benefits. Praying for peace and prosperity is a way to show love for God’s people and His worship.

v. 8–9: David promises to be a true friend to Jerusalem. He says, For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the Lord