This Ps. expands the thought of Psalms 86:9. Zion is the chosen dwelling of God (Psalms 87:1-3), the spiritual birthplace of the other nations (Psalms 87:4-6), and the source of joy to them all (Psalms 87:7). In Psalms 86:4 God is the speaker. The mention of Babylon as no longer an enemy of Israel, but as receiving spiritual blessing from Zion, shows that the Ps. was written after the bitter experience of the captivity was over.
Related Commentaries of Psalms 87:1
Psalms 87:1-7
1 His foundation is in the holy mountains.
2 The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
3 Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.
4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there.
5 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.
6 The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah.
7 As well the singers as the players on instruments shall be there: all my springs are in thee.