The King mentioned in this Psalm does not align with any historical Israelite monarchy. However, the references to gifts from Tyre establish a connection between Solomon and the Psalm, as Hiram, the King of Tyre, provided materials for Solomon’s temple. With this in mind, some scholars associate this Psalm with Solomon’s wedding to an Egyptian princess. However, there are significant discrepancies between the details presented in the Psalm and the known life of Solomon, such as the fact that he did not live forever but was, in fact, buried with his ancestors. Furthermore, if we were to consider this Psalm as part of Solomon’s wedding repertoire, it invites the question of the whereabouts of the other six hundred and ninety-nine songs.
A Noble Theme
My heart is stirred by a noble theme
Psalms 45:1 (NIV)
as I recite my verses for the king;
my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.
In this Psalm, the writer’s contemplation reveals a profound experience that stirred within him before he penned this hymn. It is notable that the authors of biblical texts often drew inspiration from the events and circumstances of their time, incorporating them into their writings. However, the psalmist found no earthly ruler who perfectly aligned with the characteristics and attributes that the Holy Spirit had impressed upon his heart.
The revelation captured in this psalm transcends mere human philosophies, for it emanates from the divine mysteries and intentions of God Himself. Throughout history, the Lord has chosen to set apart His people as vessels for the communication of His sovereign plans, effectively shielding them from the contamination of human agendas. This transcendent act of separation by God bore fruit in the life of John the Baptist, who, in accordance with God’s unique design, was secluded in the wilderness, safeguarding his spiritual fortitude. Today, God continues to unveil His unique purposes to His faithful servants, as He separates them from the entanglements of the world, enabling them to perceive and proclaim His sovereign will.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that this particular Psalm was not initially composed in written form but rather recited orally before being transcribed. The author, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, was inspired to utter a new song from the depths of their heart beyond their own comprehension. This individual relied solely on the divine words bestowed upon them without seeking any external influences or references. It serves as a reminder that even in moments of uncertainty or speechlessness, God encourages us to open our mouths wide and allow His words to fill them. Unfortunately, many preachers rely on philosophical references and ignore the treasures hidden in the Bible.
Truth, Humility, And Justice
You are the most excellent of men and your lips have been anointed with grace,
Psalms 45:2-5 (NIV)
since God has blessed you forever. Gird your sword on your side, you mighty one; clothe yourself with splendor and majesty. In your majesty ride forth victoriously in the cause of truth, humility and justice; let your right hand achieve awesome deeds. Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s enemies; let the nations fall beneath your feet.
In the realm of adoration, lies Jesus — the embodiment of grace and eternal blessings bestowed upon Him by His Heavenly Father. With a double-edged sword in hand, He emerges as the saviour of His people, adorned in the garb of Holiness.
Through the triumph of the Cross, Jesus graciously amalgamates the forces of evil, love, and forgiveness, emerging victorious over the clutches of death by virtue of truth, humility, and justice. The Cross becomes the stage where God pours forth His boundless love for humanity, and Jesus’ profound act of forgiveness pierces the depths of every individual’s heart.
As foretold, His Father shall conquer all nations, subjecting them beneath His feet. As written in the book of Isaiah, “After He has suffered, He will see the light of life and be satisfied; by His knowledge, my righteous servant will justify many, and He will bear their iniquities” (Isaiah 53:11).
God, Has Set You Above Your Companions
Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia;
Psalms 45:6-8 (NIV)
from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.
In Revelation 1:8; 21:6, and 22:13, Jesus Christ proclaimed Himself to be the “Alpha and Omega.” However, Jesus is also known by several other names. In referring to Jesus as the “Alpha and Omega,” it means that he was at the beginning of all things and that he’ll be at the end. “But unto the Son, he saith, Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy kingdom” (Hebrews 1:8 ).
In this unrighteous world, Jesus proved to be righteous through His obedience until His death on the Cross, and God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that in the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledges that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11).
The fragrance of myrrh and aloes is referred to as the sufferings of Jesus, as these are bitter in taste but sweet in smell. At the burial site of Jesus, Joseph of Arimathea was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds (John 19:39). Cassia and its sweet fragrance are known for their healing properties but Jesus healed the sins of this world.
The Royal Bride
Daughters of kings are among your honored women; at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir. Listen, daughter, and pay careful attention: Forget your people and your father’s house. Let the king be enthralled by your beauty;
Psalms 45:9-11 (NIV)
honor him, for he is your lord.
The bride is adorned in gold from Ophir. It is believed that Ophir, situated in western Arabia, was renowned for its highly coveted gold. According to 1 Kings 9:28, the servants of King Solomon brought vast quantities of this prized metal from Ophir to be used in his grand temple construction projects.
While attempting to compare the splendour of Heaven to earthly possessions, it is important to bear in mind that such juxtaposition only captures a fraction of the true magnificence of Heaven. Rendering an accurate depiction of Heaven’s glory in relation to earthly treasures remains elusive. However, Job, having grasped this fundamental truth, wisely esteemed God and His wisdom above all else in this world. It is stated in Job 28:15-16, “It cannot be purchased with the finest gold, nor can its value be measured in silver. It cannot be acquired with the gold of Ophir, with precious onyx or lapis lazuli.”
In the admonition provided by Pasamist, it was proposed that the bride allocate all possessions deemed beneficial to satisfy the bridegroom. Notably, the Church is metaphorically depicted as the bride of Jesus Christ. Therefore, the apostle Paul cautions the congregants, or rather the Church itself, against conforming to the values and practices prevalent in this world. Furthermore, in his vision, the apostle John witnessed the descent of the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, from the heavenly realms, divinely prepared and adorned as a bride for her beloved Spouse (Revelation 21:2).
The Triumph Entry
The city of Tyre will come with a gift, people of wealth will seek your favor.
Psalms 45:12-15 (NIV)
All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her— those brought to be with her. Led in with joy and gladness, they enter the palace of the king.
Once the celestial union has been consecrated, the bride shall now proceed to enter the abode of the King, while the groom has already made all necessary preparations for His church to join Him and abide in His presence. He did not gain entry by the means of sacrificial offerings like the blood of goats and calves, but rather, He entered the Most Holy Place once and for all by His own precious blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12).
Just as God granted immense wealth to His people when He delivered them from Egypt, with the Egyptians willingly bestowing their riches upon them as gifts, so too shall the servants of the land emerge from their earthly abodes, carrying with them the abundance of the fruits of the Spirit as they join their Lord.
The Psalmist, keeping this account in mind, eloquently expresses that upon departing this mortal realm to abide with their Lord, they shall not depart empty-handed, but rather, they shall be adorned with the riches of spiritual blessings and shall enter with exultation amidst a multitude. The hallowed nature of the church is depicted as a radiant princess.
Reconciliation With The Father
Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land. I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you forever and ever.
Psalms 45:16-17 (NIV)
In the biblical narrative, the story of Korah serves as a reminder of the consequences of failing to fulfil one’s duties and losing sight of our purpose in serving God. However, it is essential to note that despite Korah’s failure, his sons were instrumental in restoring his position and helping to realign the focus on God’s worship.
Drawing parallels to the teachings of Jesus, we understand that He lived a life of utmost obedience and sacrifice, reconciling us with His Father. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters (Romans 8:29). As believers, we are called to emulate His example and understand ourselves as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, entrusted with the responsibility to transmit our blessed encounters with God to future generations.
Interestingly, the Sons of Korah have been attributed with prophetic psalms that display a profound understanding of God’s redemptive plan, foreshadowing events that were yet to transpire. Their writings also allude to the anticipated second coming of Jesus, an event eagerly awaited by believers worldwide.
The significance of these lessons and prophecies cannot be underestimated. They remind us to remain faithful in our devotion to God, diligently carrying out our responsibilities, and eagerly anticipating the fulfilment of God’s promises in the future.
Now they are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9).
The Jordan Valley 
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