Bible Teachers:What does Psalm chapter 131 mean?
Chapter Context
Fifteen psalms (Psalms 120—134) are part of a collection used when pilgrims would climb into the hills of Jerusalem for annual feasts (Deuteronomy 16:16). Four of these songs "of ascents" (Psalm 122; 124; 131; 133) are labeled "of David," which may be a reference to style more than his personal writing. Yet this psalm echoes David's humility in faith (2 Samuel 7:18; Psalm 36:11).
What does Psalm chapter 131 mean?
This short song is one of a collection (Psalm 120—134) used during travels to Jerusalem for feasts. This passage emphasizes humility before the Lord. The tone of the psalm matches David's style of faith (2 Samuel 7:18; Psalm 36:11).
David begins with a statement of his own humility. He does not presume to know things, nor does he set his ambitions on lofty goals. Instead, he is content to wait for the Lord to act. David compares his peace to that of a child who is no longer desperate for a mother's milk. The child who can eat solid food is more content and trusting in the presence of the mother. This is an attitude which all Israel should adopt: to calmly express faith in the Lord (Psalm 131:1–3).
