Psalm 122 is the 122nd psalm of the Book of Psalms, beginning in English in the King James Version: "I was glad" and in Latin entitled Laetatus sum. It is attributed to King David and one of the fifteen psalms described as A song of ascents (Shir Hama'alot). Its title, I was glad, is reflected in a number of choral introits by various composers. In the slightly different numbering system used in the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate translations of the Bible, this psalm is Psalm 121.

Text

Hebrew

The following table shows the Hebrew text of the Psalm with vowels alongside an English translation based upon the JPS 1917 translation (now in the public domain).

King James Version

Purpose

The psalm is attributed to King David; however, Alexander Kirkpatrick suggests that its author lived "in the country, at a distance from Jerusalem. He recalls the joy with which he heard the invitation of his neighbours to join the company of pilgrims". He adds, "the psalm may best be explained thus, as the meditation of a pilgrim who, after returning to the quiet of his home, reflects upon the happy memories of his pilgrimage."

Uses

Judaism

Psalm 122 is recited following Mincha between Sukkot and Shabbat Hagadol. It is also recited on Shabbat Nachamu (the Shabbat after Tisha B'Av) in some traditions. It is recited on Yom Yerushalayim in the Conservative Jewish tradition due to the psalmist speaking of a united Jerusalem. Verses 7–9 are part of Talmud Brachos 64a.

Catholic Church

According to the Rule of St. Benedict, this Psalm was to be recited during the third act of the week, that is to say on Tuesday through Saturday, after Psalm 120 (119) and Psalm 121 (120). In the Liturgy of the Hours in general use today, Psalm 122 is recited or sung at Vespers on the Saturday of the fourth week of the four-week cycle. It is also used at Second Vespers in the Common texts for the feasts of both the Blessed Virgin Mary and of all Holy Women. In the liturgy of the Mass, it is recited on the feast of Christ the King, the first Sunday of Advent in year A in the three-year cycle of Sunday readings and on the 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time in year C.

Anglicanism

In the Book of Common Prayer, Psalm 122 is to be said or sung on Day 27 at Morning Prayer. Verse 1 is used in the introit for Mothering Sunday which coincides with Laetare Sunday, also called "Mid-Lent Sunday" or Refreshment Sunday.

Architecture

Verse 6, Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem, is reflected in a sculpture by Dani Karavan in the wall of the Knesset building in Jerusalem.

Musical settings