Psalms 87:4 Meaning and Explanation
“I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God claims that even gentile nations and their peoples are spiritually born from Zion.
The Context of Psalms 87:4
The psalm expands Zion's people to include believers from all nations.
What Does Psalms 87:4 Mean?
Rahab (Egypt), Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia represent the great pagan empires surrounding Israel. The psalmist, speaking as God or His representative, declares that these foreign peoples—those who know God—are counted as born in Zion, making them part of God's family.
This stunning reversal means spiritual citizenship in God's city transcends ethnic and national boundaries. Those from distant lands who acknowledge God become part of His people, united by faith rather than birth.
Psalms 87:4 in the Original Language
Rahab (רָהַב) — a poetic name for Egypt, derived from boastfulness; sometimes also refers to the mythical sea-monster representing chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 87:4
What does Psalms 87:4 mean?
God claims that even gentile nations and their peoples are spiritually born from Zion.
What is the context of Psalms 87:4?
The psalm expands Zion's people to include believers from all nations.