Psalms 120-134 each bear the superscription ‘a song of ascents’. This is highly suggestive of liturgical use, perhaps as pilgrimage songs for the faithful as they approached the holy mountain of Zion. Another thought, given that the superscriptions often give musical instruction, is that the ascents refer to the pitch or volume of the songs in sequence. It could be both, of course! Psalm 121 has a beautiful, lilting simplicity, and would certainly lend itself to liturgical call and response. It is an uncomplicated song of trust in God, the God who never sleeps. Coverdale’s poetic reflex prevents him doing the same in English, but the Hebrew has the word ‘guard’ six times: much easier to teach pilgrims, perhaps.

from notes by Andrew Hammond © 2022