This verse underscores the proclamation of God’s character across time and place.
“That men may tell of the name of the LORD in Zion And His praise in Jerusalem,” (Ps. 102:21) weaves together two powerful images: declaring the Lord’s name and worshiping in the holy city. Zion was originally the fortified hill in ancient Jerusalem, situated in the southeastern part of the city. Over time, it came to represent the spiritual heart of God’s dwelling place among His people, intimately associated with the Temple and divine worship. Jerusalem itself has long served as a central location for Israel’s religious life, having been established as the capital by King David around 1003 BC. By emphasizing these geographical details, the psalmist reminds believers that God’s name and His praise are not bound by human borders but displayed publicly among His covenant community.
In this verse, “that men may tell of the name of the LORD in Zion” (v.21), the psalmist highlights God’s reputation and character—encompassed within His name—proclaimed before the faithful who gather in Zion. The call is broad, urging "men" (meaning everyone) to participate in declaring who the Lord is. This worship is not meant to be contained; it spills into personal testimony and corporate praise, fostering a culture of worship that is continuous and enduring. In the broader context of Psalm 102, a psalm often associated with affliction and sorrow, this verse provides a resounding note of hope, showing that even in times of desperation, the knowledge of God’s goodness and sovereignty should spread among the people (Romans 15:4).
Furthermore, “And His praise in Jerusalem,” (v.21) calls to mind the holy gatherings in the Temple, where Israel would bring their sacrifices and offerings in a spirit of reverence and thanksgiving. In a New Testament dimension, Jesus often used Jerusalem as the setting for pivotal teaching moments (Matthew 23:37-39), linking the city with the unfolding of God’s plan of redemption. Thus, the psalmist’s vision for God’s fame to go forward in Jerusalem echoes into the future, culminating in the New Jerusalem portrayed in Revelation, where His people unite in everlasting praise (Revelation 21:2).
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Psalms 102:21 meaning
“That men may tell of the name of the LORD in Zion And His praise in Jerusalem,” (Ps. 102:21) weaves together two powerful images: declaring the Lord’s name and worshiping in the holy city. Zion was originally the fortified hill in ancient Jerusalem, situated in the southeastern part of the city. Over time, it came to represent the spiritual heart of God’s dwelling place among His people, intimately associated with the Temple and divine worship. Jerusalem itself has long served as a central location for Israel’s religious life, having been established as the capital by King David around 1003 BC. By emphasizing these geographical details, the psalmist reminds believers that God’s name and His praise are not bound by human borders but displayed publicly among His covenant community.
In this verse, “that men may tell of the name of the LORD in Zion” (v.21), the psalmist highlights God’s reputation and character—encompassed within His name—proclaimed before the faithful who gather in Zion. The call is broad, urging "men" (meaning everyone) to participate in declaring who the Lord is. This worship is not meant to be contained; it spills into personal testimony and corporate praise, fostering a culture of worship that is continuous and enduring. In the broader context of Psalm 102, a psalm often associated with affliction and sorrow, this verse provides a resounding note of hope, showing that even in times of desperation, the knowledge of God’s goodness and sovereignty should spread among the people (Romans 15:4).
Furthermore, “And His praise in Jerusalem,” (v.21) calls to mind the holy gatherings in the Temple, where Israel would bring their sacrifices and offerings in a spirit of reverence and thanksgiving. In a New Testament dimension, Jesus often used Jerusalem as the setting for pivotal teaching moments (Matthew 23:37-39), linking the city with the unfolding of God’s plan of redemption. Thus, the psalmist’s vision for God’s fame to go forward in Jerusalem echoes into the future, culminating in the New Jerusalem portrayed in Revelation, where His people unite in everlasting praise (Revelation 21:2).