It is attributed to King David and one of the fifteen psalms described as A song of ascents (Shir Hama'alot).

The psalm is attributed to King David;[3] however, Alexander Kirkpatrick suggests that its author lived "in the country, at a distance from Jerusalem.

He adds, "the psalm may best be explained thus, as the meditation of a pilgrim who, after returning to the quiet of his home, reflects upon the happy memories of his pilgrimage.

[6] It is recited on Yom Yerushalayim in the Conservative Jewish tradition due to the psalmist speaking of a united Jerusalem.

[9] In the Liturgy of the Hours in general use today, Psalm 122 is recited or sung at Vespers on the Saturday of the fourth week of the four-week cycle.