Psalms 118:20-24

20 This is the gate of the LORD through which the righteous may enter.

21 I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.

22 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone;

23 the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.

24 The LORD has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.

Psalms 118:20-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 118

Kimchi says their Rabbins are divided about this psalm. Some understand it of David; others of the Messiah: but, with us Christians, there ought to be no doubt of its belonging to the Messiah; since our Lord has quoted a passage out of it, and applied it to himself, Ps 118:22,23; see Mt 21:42; and so has the Apostle Peter, Ac 4:11. Nor did the Jews of those times object thereunto, which doubtless they would have done, had the psalm respected any other but the Messiah; yea, the common people that attended Christ when he entered into Jerusalem, and the children in the temple, took their "hosanna" from hence, Ps 118:26; see Mt 21:9,15. It is generally thought to be written by David, after he was established in the kingdom, and had brought the ark of the Lord into the city. It concludes the great "Hallel", or hymn sung at the Jewish festivals; particularly at the feasts of tabernacle and the passover.

Cross References

• 1. Psalms 122:1-2
• 2. Psalms 15:1-2; Psalms 24:3-4; Psalms 24:7; Isaiah 35:8; Revelation 22:14
• 3. S ver 5; Psalms 116:1
• 4. Psalms 27:1
• 5. Isaiah 8:14
• 6. Isaiah 17:10; Isaiah 19:13; Isaiah 28:16; Zechariah 4:7; Zechariah 10:4; Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17*; S Acts 4:11*; 1 Peter 2:7*
• 7. Matthew 21:42*; Mark 12:11*
• 8. S Psalms 70:4