Psalms 132:7

We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.

Psalms 132:7 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 132 is a song of ascents, sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem for worship. It recalls King David’s vow to find a permanent dwelling place for the Lord. This verse belongs to a procession accompanying the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, expressing the people’s eager resolve to enter God’s presence.

In the Old Testament, the tabernacle was the portable sanctuary used during the wilderness journey. It had the outer court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place. Here, “his tabernacles” refers to God’s dwelling place, where His presence was sought and encountered. The plural may point to the various courts or chambers of the sanctuary.

Meaning

The words “we will go” are a determined, corporate declaration. The people commit themselves together to approach God. “His footstool” is a term for the Ark of the Covenant, as in 1 Chronicles 28:2, where David calls it God’s footstool. The Ark held the law, had the mercy seat above it, and was overshadowed by cherubim. Between them, the Majesty of God dwelt. Thus, the Ark was properly God’s footstool, and all this was typical of Christ.

Worship at His footstool means bowing low with humility and reverence. It recognizes our frailty as dust and God’s holiness. In Isaiah 66:1, the Lord says, “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.” Any place of worship on earth may be called God’s footstool in contrast to heaven as His throne.

Biblical connections

The tabernacle was a physical representation of God’s presence among His people. It was lovely and pleasant to believers because of God’s presence, the provisions made for them, the company enjoyed, and the work done there: prayer, praise, preaching, hearing the word, and administration of ordinances.

Application

As believers today, we are encouraged to approach God with reverence, recognizing His sovereignty and holiness. We should prioritize worship and make it central to our lives. True worship is not confined to a specific location but is a spiritual act of devotion. We are also called to gather together as a community to worship God, just as the psalmist and the people of Israel did.

Reflection

This verse expresses a longing to be in God’s presence, recognizing His dwelling as holy and sacred. It reflects the yearning of believers to commune with God and worship where His glory is manifest. May we share that same determined, corporate resolve to draw near to Him.