Lesson 4: Zion, The "City of David"
Scripture to Read: Psalm 125:1126:6; Joel 2:32; Micah 4:7
Mount Zion is one of the largest, oldest, and
most significant sites in Israel. This mountain,
which is the southeastern hill of the city of
Jerusalem, was a Jebusite fortress that King
David captured over 3,000 years ago and made
his capital. Mount Zion became so identified
with David that it was called the “city of
David,” and is believed by many to be his final
resting place. Mount Zion was also considered
to be the dwelling place of God—perhaps
because it is the tallest locale in Jerusalem,
looking out over the entire city.
As the verses above show, the name Zion came
to be used not only of Jerusalem, but of Israel
herself. The Bible is full of references to Mount
Zion, with the name appearing over 150 times
in the Tanakh, or Bible. The meaning of the
term is uncertain—it may mean “stronghold”—
but there is no doubt about God’s promises
concerning Israel as represented by Zion. God
promises to pour out His blessing on His people
from Mount Zion, and that it will stand in
strength forever. The Bible also speaks of the
Lord forming a wall of protection around those
who live in Zion. It is easy to see why this
mountain holds such an important place in the
Bible and in Israel.
Study Questions
- Why did the Lord choose to "dwell" on
Mount Zion?
- What symbolism is there in the fact that
Mount Zion is the tallest point in Jerusalem?
- In what ways do the words of Psalm 125 give
peace and comfort to God's people today?
- Both Joel and Micah prophesy a future day
when the remnants of Israel will return to
Mount Zion—speaking of the Holy Land—and
come under God’s protection. What can we do
to support this prophesied ingathering of Israel?
Something to Think About
Many times the Bible uses objects such as mountains to symbolize the power of God. The picture of Mount Zion towering over Jerusalem paints a strong word portrait of a powerful, all-knowing
God who cares about His people and watches over them from a superior vantage point. Spend a
few minutes thanking God that He is ever watchful over His people today.
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