Psalm 130:8

Israel is encouraged to hope in the Lord (Psalms 9:18; 27:14; 131:3) because the Lord pays the high price for redemption and removes the sin that separates humans from him (see also Psalm 111:9; Exodus 6:6–8; 2 Samuel 7:23–24; Isaiah 43:1–4; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Peter 1:18).

Beginning with himself as a representative of the community, the psalmist cries for God’s mercy (Psalm 130:1–3) out of deep distress. He places his hope in the Lord (Psalm 130:4–6), trusting that the Lord will rescue in his own time and way. With this confidence, the psalmist invites Israel to wait for the Lord (Psalm 130:7–8).

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.