The English word “pray” is found in the Hebrew Bible 225 times. The normal Hebrew word translated into English as pray is Na, pronounced naw, Strongs #4994. It simply means to ask. But the Hebrew word translated as pray in Psalm 122:6 is sha’al, pronounced shah-ahl, Strong’s #7592. Of the 225 references for pray, this is the only time this Hebrew word is used. Since sha’al is not the normal Hebrew word for pray, this means God is telling us something very important about praying for the peace of Jerusalem, something He wants us to understand and act on.

Much more than just asking, the word sha’al means an earnest, heartfelt desire almost to the point of demanding an explanation understanding of and participation in bringing peace to Jerusalem. It is a recognition that there will never be “world peace” until there is first peace in Jerusalem. So the word sha’al not only means to actively and earnestly seek the good or peace of Jerusalem through prayer but also through works of covenantal love, that is to partner with God and His will for bringing peace to Jerusalem. The last part of verse nine clarifies what it means to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. It says of Jerusalem to “seek your good.”