What do Christians mean by the gates of Zion?

In the context of Psalm 87, the gates of Zion are emblematic of how God designates access to His kingdom. The psalmist notes that the Lord loves the gates of Zion, denoting His approval and affection for the means by which one enters His kingdom. Jesus declares Himself as the 'door' through which believers must enter, reinforcing that no one can access salvation or the relationship with God apart from Him. This understanding challenges the universalist mindset, asserting that the only way to God is through the unique redemptive work of Christ.