Psalm 78 68

Psalm 78:68 kjv

But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved.

Psalm 78:68 nkjv

But chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion which He loved.

Psalm 78:68 niv

but he chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which he loved.

Psalm 78:68 esv

but he chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which he loves.

Psalm 78:68 nlt

He chose instead the tribe of Judah,
and Mount Zion, which he loved.

Psalm 78 verses

Psalm 78 68 Meaning

Psalm 78:68 declares God's deliberate and affectionate choice of the tribe of Judah and Mount Zion after having rejected the previous arrangements associated with the tribe of Ephraim and the sanctuary at Shiloh. This verse signifies a crucial turning point in God's redemptive history with Israel, establishing a new covenantal focus on David's lineage from Judah and a permanent dwelling place for His presence in Jerusalem (Zion), from where His kingly rule would extend.

Psalm 78 68 Context

Psalm 78 is a "Maschil" or didactic psalm, an historical reflection on God's dealings with Israel. It recounts their history from the Exodus to the time of David, focusing on Israel's repeated rebellion and God's consistent faithfulness. The preceding verses (78:56-64) lament Israel's provocation of God, leading to His judgment, including the abandonment of the Tabernacle at Shiloh and the defeat by the Philistines. Verse 67 specifically states God "rejected the tent of Joseph and did not choose the tribe of Ephraim." Therefore, verse 68 marks a significant pivot: from judgment and rejection to a new divine election. This choice directly leads to the selection of David as king in verses 70-71, solidifying Jerusalem (Zion) as the religious and political center, thus fulfilling the promise of a perpetual Davidic kingdom. Historically, this shift reflects the events after the Ark's capture and return (1 Sam 4-7) and David's establishment of Jerusalem as his capital and the site for God's dwelling (2 Sam 5-6).

Psalm 78 68 Word analysis

• But chose: The Hebrew word is vayyivchar (וַיִּבְחַר), meaning "and he chose" or "but he chose." The conjunction "but" here is crucial, signifying a contrast with the preceding rejection. It emphasizes God's sovereign, deliberate, and free decision. This action highlights His unfailing purpose, even when His people are unfaithful.
• the tribe of Judah: The Hebrew is shevet Yehudah (שֵׁבֶט יְהוּדָה). Judah was the fourth son of Jacob, but his lineage was divinely chosen for leadership and the Davidic, and ultimately Messianic, kingship. This choice elevates Judah over the initially more prominent northern tribes like Ephraim, affirming Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49.
• Mount Zion: The Hebrew is har Tsiyyon (הַר צִיּוֹן). Zion is a specific hill within Jerusalem that became synonymous with the city itself, especially its spiritual and royal significance. It became the location for the Temple and the dwelling place of God's name, replacing the transient Tabernacle. Its selection underscored Jerusalem's destiny as God's chosen capital on earth.
• which he loved: The Hebrew is asher ahav (אֲשֶׁר אָהֵב), literally "which He loved." This emphasizes that God's choice was not merely pragmatic but driven by profound affection and a covenantal commitment. His love for Zion made it His permanent abode, a symbol of His enduring presence among His people. This affection guarantees its lasting importance in salvation history.

Words-group analysis:

• "But chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion": This phrase directly counters the previous rejections of Ephraim and Shiloh. It demonstrates God's initiative in re-establishing His chosen order, pivoting the focus of His redemptive plan to a new tribe and a new place. It signals the foundational choice for the Davidic covenant.
• "Mount Zion which he loved": This particular wording conveys God's personal and deeply affectionate commitment to this specific location. It establishes Zion not merely as a geographic spot, but as a sacred place where God desired to manifest His presence and covenantal love, ensuring its lasting theological significance as the future spiritual capital of God's kingdom.

Psalm 78 68 Bonus section

• The transition from "tent of Joseph" and "tabernacle of Shiloh" (representing temporary and rejected dwellings) to the "tribe of Judah" and "Mount Zion" signifies a profound theological shift from a decentralized, largely failing tribal leadership to a centralized, permanent, and divinely ordained monarchy and spiritual capital. This laid the groundwork for the temple and the future messianic reign.
• The emphasis on God's "love" for Zion differentiates His choice from a mere practical selection; it signifies a deep covenantal bond and an intention for a lasting, sacred presence. This choice foreshadows the ultimate spiritual Zion (Heavenly Jerusalem), highlighting God's eternal love for His dwelling and His people.

Psalm 78 68 Commentary

Psalm 78:68 is a pivotal statement in God's historical interaction with Israel, shifting from disciplinary judgment to redemptive establishment. After recounting Israel's persistent rebellion and God's corresponding judgment, including the rejection of Ephraim (the northern leading tribe) and the desolation of Shiloh (the previous religious center), God's sovereign hand re-orients His divine plan. This verse marks the election of Judah and Mount Zion, signifying God's decision to place His glory and kingly authority permanently in Jerusalem through the Davidic covenant. It speaks to God's unwavering faithfulness even in the face of human infidelity, choosing a new path to accomplish His eternal purposes. This divine election not only ensured the continuity of His covenant promises but also established the earthly roots for the coming Messiah, who would descend from Judah and reign from Zion. It assures that God's plans are unthwartable, always finding a way to advance His kingdom.