Mount Zion has a special significance to the author of Psalm 48 because it is the location of the holy city Jerusalem, the palaces of Israel's king, and the temple of Yahweh. Just as God dwelled in Zion for the Israelites, the church of Christ (and all our individual churches) should be "a city on a hill"--a holy place that is set apart for God and that allows the light of his Spirit to illuminate a lost world. Or as Jesus says in Matthew 5:14, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden."

The song is written in the key of C minor, but I've included an A minor lead sheet for guitarists. (I'll do the math for you: put the capo on the third fret!)

hear the music: mp3
print the music: pdf (key of A minor), pdf (key of C minor)
read the lyrics: lyrics
see the music online: gif

To buy the CD or Piano/Vocal Book go to the orders page.

CHORUS:
As in the past we have heard, now with our eyes we have seen.
God makes his palaces sure for all who dwell within,
For all who dwell within a city on a hill.

2. Like your name, O Lord, your praise engulfs the world.
Within your holy house we'll meditate upon your love.
Let mount Zion rejoice, your hand is filled with righteousness.
Let Judah look to you, a city on a hill.

3. Walk about the walls. Consider every gate.
Count her citadels. Recount Mount Zion's loftiness.
The God that dwells within has led the generations,
And He will be our guide even to the end.