Bible Commentaries
Psalms 135

Verses 1-21

After the general movement of this book of the Psalter which has brought us in thought to the ultimate realisation of worship, and before the final psalms of perfected praise, we now have a section (Psalms 135:1-21; Psalms 136:1-26; Psalms 137:1-9; Psalms 138:1-8; Psalms 139:1-24; Psalms 140:1-13; Psalms 141:1-10; Psalms 142:1-7; Psalms 143:1-12; Psa 144:1-15 ) in which are contained songs of experience, and inspiration of which is in the conceptions of Jehovah and the way of approach to Him, which the former songs have set forth.

This first of the series is a pure song of praise. It opens with a call to the priests as the representatives of the people to praise (vv. Psa 135:1-2 ). It proceeds to set forth the reasons for this praise (vv. Psa 135:3-18 ). The first is that of what He is in Himself, and the fact that He has chosen His people (vv. Psa 135:3-5 ). The second is that of His creative might (vv. Psa 135:6-7 ). The third is that of His deliverance of His people from bondage (vv. Psa 135:8-9 ). The fourth is that of His giving them a land (vv. Psa 135:10-12 ). The fifth is that of His faithfulness (v. Psa 135:13 ). The sixth is that of His sure judgment and consequent return to His servants (v. Psa 135:14 ). The seventh is that of His superiority as the Living One over all the false and dead idols of the nations (vv. Psalms 135:15-18). Finally the song is an appeal to nation, priests, and Levites to unite in praise.