Psalms 133 - Printer Friendly

This psalm is exceptionally brief, considered the fourth-shortest of the modern "chapters" of Scripture. Only Psalm 117, Psalm 134, and Psalm 131 are shorter. The message of the psalm is crucial, however: a celebration of brotherhood and unity. This is a "song of ascent," a short composition used as families would travel to Jerusalem for one of the required feasts. It's possible this psalm was inspired by David's ascent to the throne, when the separate tribes of Israel joined to recognize his leadership.

Jesus commanded His followers to love one another (John 13:34–35) as a primary sign of our love for Him (John 14:15). This does not mean being in complete agreement on all details. It does mean agreeing to disagree, when the issue is not critical, and disagreeing without being disagreeable. The joy of relationships marked by unity cannot be overstated (Psalm 133:1).

Anointing with oil is symbolic of God's protection. David references the priestly anointing of Aaron, in particular. This ties the concept of brotherly love and unity to our spiritual role. All Christians—those saved by faith in Christ—are part of a spiritual priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Unity and love for one another, within the church, is both a divine command and a profound blessing (Psalm 133:2).

Hermon is a mountain quite a distance from Jerusalem, at the northeast border of the kingdom of Israel. However, it is part of a mountain range so tall it can sometimes be seen from as far away as the Dead Sea. Water from sources such as a distant mountain are well beyond the sight or control of the city. Dew is controlled by the weather, not human efforts. Both natural sources reflect the sovereign nature of God, who provides for His people. Unity, as well, comes as a blessing from God (John 17:21), who enables otherwise fallible people to be united (Psalm 133:3).

Unity is the theme of this psalm. David affirms that the unity of the people of Israel was good and pleasant. Although there had been discord for years among the tribes, their coming together as one people was refreshing. It resembled the occasion when Aaron was anointed to serve as Israel's high priest. It resembled the refreshing dew that fell on Mount Hermon and on the hills around Jerusalem. Jerusalem is the city on which God placed his everlasting blessing.

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.