Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 45

This psalm celebrates the splendour and victory of a King and a royal daughter at their wedding banquet. 

1-2: A psalm to the blessed King

3-5: Praise for the King’s victories

6-9: Praise for God’s Anointed King

10-12: Complete devotion to the King

13-15: Majesty of the King’s daughter

16-17: Blessings of devotion to the King

Through the benefit of Hebrews 1:8-9, we know this psalm prophesies about Jesus Christ the King and his marriage to His bride, the church. 

However, reading the psalm in its original context throws up many questions useful for meditation and gaining insights about God’s plans and promises. So, here goes:

Who is this psalm about? A Human King? A Divine King? A Royal God-Man? More than one king? Who is the daughter? Is she a king’s daughter marrying another king? 

What commitment does marrying the king require? What benefits does it confer on the king’s bride? Am I willing to ‘forget’ my people to go with the king? 

What was the significance of this psalm for the ancient Israelites? What does it teach us about the identity of Christ? What does it signify for the church of Christ?