Psalms 134 - Printer Friendly

What does Psalms 134 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

The last of the songs "of ascents" (Psalms 120—134) forms an appropriate end to the section.

The psalmist begins by calling on the servants of the Lord to praise Him at all times. These "servants" are the Levites, including the priests (Exodus 40:13–15; Numbers 26:59), who were charged with caring for the tabernacle and temple (Numbers 1:50; Leviticus 8:35). The "house of the LORD" is the temple originally built (1 Kings 6:1) by Solomon (Psalm 134:1).

As these servants are called to worship, the psalmist refers to lifting of hands. This was—and is—a common expression of praise to God (Psalm 28:2; 1 Timothy 2:8). Here, the gesture is directed to the "holy place." This may be a generic reference to the temple. However, one of the areas within the temple was a "holy place" (Exodus 26:33) which contained the "most holy place." These were the physical center of worship under the old covenant (Psalm 134:2).

Blessings are common in the Old Testament. These are prayers for the Lord to bring good things—such as protection and success—to those being blessed. A famous example tied to Aaron is recorded in Numbers 6:24–26. Zion was originally a mountain fortress captured by David (2 Samuel 5:7). This later became part of Jerusalem, the capital city of Israel (1 Kings 8:1) and the location of the temple (Psalm 134:3).

Psalm 134:1–2 repeats the name Yahweh four times. This is the name used by God when speaking to Moses (Exodus 3:15). The psalmist encourages worship from the Levites and priests (Numbers 1:50) who serve as caretakers of the temple (1 Kings 6:1).

Psalm 134:3 is a suitable way to end the songs "of ascents" (Psalms 120—134). Zion is another name for the city of Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). Since God is the creator, He has the power to offer meaningful blessings.

Chapter Summary:

The psalmist calls on the Levites who minister in the temple (Numbers 1:50; 1 Kings 6:1) to worship God. He also expresses a blessing by referring to Zion, another name for Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). The Lord's role as Creator emphasizes the value of His blessing.

Chapter Context:

This is the last of the songs "of ascents" (Psalms 120—134). These were connected with pilgrimage to Jerusalem for annual festivals (Deuteronomy 16:16). Another name for the city was Zion (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). Jerusalem was situated on a series of hills; one would "ascend" to get there from other regions. The "servants" here are the Levites who tended the temple (Numbers 1:50), and the temple itself is the "house of the LORD" (1 Kings 6:1).

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

Accessed 12/18/2024 10:30:29 AM