<P> In the general sense, Psalm 2 is interpreted as referring to King David, God's anointed, defeating the enemies of Israel who gather against her . In addition, Psalm 2 is often considered to be messianic, referring to the Messianic Era when the kingdoms of the world gather against Israel and are defeated, and Jerusalem becomes a house of prayer for the nations . In this vein, the "messiah" of Psalm 2 is interpreted not as David but as the future Messiah, who will restore Israel to its former glory and bring world peace . </P> <Ol> <Li> Babylonian Talmud, Sukkah 52a: "Our Rabbis taught, The Holy One, blessed be He, will say to the Messiah, the son of David (May he reveal himself speedily in our days!),' Ask of me anything, and I will give it to thee', as it is said, I will tell of the decree etc. this day have I begotten thee, ask of me and I will give the nations for thy inheritance" (Psalms ii. 7 - 8). </Li> <Li> Genesis Rabbah 44: 8 R. Jonathan said: "Three persons were bidden' ask', viz.: Solomon, Ahaz, and the King Messiah . Solomon: Ask what I shall give thee (1 Kings III, 5). Ahaz: Ask thee a sign (Isa . VII, 11). The King Messiah: Ask of Me, etc . (Ps. II, 8)." </Li> </Ol> <Li> Babylonian Talmud, Sukkah 52a: "Our Rabbis taught, The Holy One, blessed be He, will say to the Messiah, the son of David (May he reveal himself speedily in our days!),' Ask of me anything, and I will give it to thee', as it is said, I will tell of the decree etc. this day have I begotten thee, ask of me and I will give the nations for thy inheritance" (Psalms ii. 7 - 8). </Li> <Li> Genesis Rabbah 44: 8 R. Jonathan said: "Three persons were bidden' ask', viz.: Solomon, Ahaz, and the King Messiah . Solomon: Ask what I shall give thee (1 Kings III, 5). Ahaz: Ask thee a sign (Isa . VII, 11). The King Messiah: Ask of Me, etc . (Ps. II, 8)." </Li>

Ask of me and i will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance