Hebraic
Musing – What are the Psalms (Songs) of Ascent?
The Psalms
of Ascent, also known as the Songs of Ascent, are a group of 15
Psalms in the Bible, numbers 120-134. They were traditionally sung by
pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem for the great pilgrimage feasts. These
psalms are a collection of poetic prayers and hymns that express a variety of
emotions, from gratitude and praise to lament and supplication.
On my second visit
to Israel, we toured the country and finally headed to Jerusalem. As the bus climbed the uphill road, we read
(sang) these “Psalms of Ascent” on the speaker in the bus. An unforgettable experience!
What
are the Psalms of Ascent? A distinct group within the Book of Psalms,
identified by the phrase "Song of Ascent" (“Shir Hama'a loth”
in Hebrew) at the beginning of each psalm. They were sung by Pilgrims
as they traveled to Jerusalem for major religious festivals like Passover,
Pentecost, and Tabernacles. The term "Ascents" refers to
the physical journey uphill to Jerusalem, as well as the spiritual ascent
toward God.
These Psalms of
Ascent explore themes of hope, trust, reliance on God, and the beauty of
unity. Enjoy!
Psalm 120: A psalm of lament, expressing the need for
deliverance from hardship.
Psalm 121: A psalm of confidence, focusing on God's
protection and guidance
Psalm 122: A psalm of joy, expressing the desire to go
to the house of the Lord.
Psalm 123: A psalm of supplication, pleading for God's
mercy.
Psalm 124: A psalm of deliverance, thanking God for
protection from enemies.
Psalm 125: A psalm of hope, emphasizing God's protection
of those who trust Him.
Psalm 126: A psalm of joy, expressing the hope of
restoration.
Psalm 127: A psalm of dependence, recognizing God's
provision and blessings.
Psalm 128: A psalm of blessing, praising God for His
faithfulness.
Psalm 129: A psalm of deliverance, remembering the
Lord's protection.
Psalm 130: A psalm of penitence, seeking God's
forgiveness and mercy.
Psalm 131: A psalm of quietness, trusting in God's care
and guidance.
Psalm 132: A psalm of promise, acknowledging God's
faithfulness to His people.
Psalm 133: A psalm of unity, praising God for His
blessings of harmony.
Psalm 134: A psalm of praise, encouraging believers to
bless the Lord.
What did reading
or singing these Psalms of Ascent accomplish?
·
These Psalms/Songs were especially
significant because they were a vital part of the Pilgrimage Experience,
offering comfort, encouragement, and spiritual guidance.
·
They remind us that our lives are
also a Spiritual Journey of faith, and that God's presence is with us
throughout our journey.
·
They also offer us a reminder
message of Hope, Trust, and Reliance on God, even in difficult times.
Points to Ponder
What
might we accomplish by reading these Psalms?
Might
we want to highlight the key words in each Psalm in our Bible?
Why
will I never forget the experience of ascending to Jerusalem?
“I lift up my
eyes to the hills— where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2 NIV
Yosef a.k.a.
Joe Brusherd July
8, 2025
Author: “Hebraic Insights – Messages
exploring the Hebrew roots of our faith”
“Biblical Marriage (by Yosef)” Weekly “Hebraic Musings”
