1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 sn The psalmist here romanticizes the temple as a place of refuge and safety. As he thinks of the birds nesting near its roof, he envisions them finding protection in God’s presence. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 sn Pools of water. Because water is so necessary for life, it makes an apt symbol for divine favor and blessing. As the pilgrims traveled to Jerusalem, God provided for their physical needs and gave them a token of his favor and of the blessings awaiting them at the temple. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30