Old Testament
Psalms 87:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this one was born there.
Compare translations
I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.
What Psalms 87:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep connection to various nations, including Rahab (often associated with Egypt), Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia. The mention of these places signifies their importance in the context of God's people. The phrase 'this one was born there' suggests that individuals from these nations can be part of God's family, emphasizing inclusivity. The psalmist highlights that those who know God recognize the significance of these nations, indicating that God's grace extends beyond Israel. This verse reflects the idea that God's kingdom is not limited to one ethnic group but includes people from diverse backgrounds, showcasing His universal love and acceptance. It serves as a reminder that God's people can come from various cultures and nations, united in their faith and relationship with Him.
How to apply Psalms 87:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace diversity within our communities and recognize that people from different backgrounds can share in God's love. We should actively seek to include others in our faith journeys, celebrating the richness that different cultures bring to our understanding of God.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 87:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 87:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 87:4 mean?
Psalms 87:4 highlights the significance of various nations, including Rahab, Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia, in relation to God's people. It emphasizes that individuals from these diverse backgrounds can be part of God's family, showcasing His inclusivity and universal love.
What is the significance of Rahab in Psalms 87:4?
In Psalms 87:4, Rahab is often associated with Egypt and symbolizes a place of historical importance. The mention of Rahab signifies that even nations historically seen as enemies can be included in God's plan and family.
What does 'this one was born there' refer to in Psalms 87:4?
The phrase 'this one was born there' in Psalms 87:4 indicates that individuals from the mentioned nations, like Philistia and Tyre, can be part of God's people. It emphasizes the idea that belonging to God's kingdom is not limited by ethnicity or nationality.
What themes are present in Psalms 87:4?
Psalms 87:4 presents themes of inclusivity, diversity, and the universal nature of God's kingdom. It highlights that God's love extends beyond Israel, welcoming people from various cultures and backgrounds.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.