Bible Commentaries
Psalms 133

Verses 1-3

PSALM 133

The blessedness of Israel restored and re-united.

Psalm 132 closes with a beautiful picture of Christ reigning in Zion. To this scene of blessedness the remnant have come in the faith of their souls. In Psalm 133 they celebrate the full blessing for Israel that will follow when Christ reigns and all His enemies are put to shame.

(v. 1) The first verse depicts the blessedness of the nation of Israel when restored and reunited. Judah and Israel, so long divided and scattered, will at last meet in the land and realize how good and pleasant it is for those that are brethren, not only to meet, but, to dwell together in unity ( Eze_37:22 ).

(v. 2) Two figures are used to set forth the blessedness of this brotherly concord. First, it is like the precious oil that, at the consecration of Aaron, was poured upon his head and flowed to the skirts of his garment, so that the whole man came under the sanctifying effect of the oil ( Exo_29:7 ; Lev_8:12 ). In like manner, when brethren dwell together in unity there is nothing to hinder the full expression of the fruits of the Spirit, of whom the oil is a type, in all their preciousness and fragrance. The Church should enjoy this blessedness now ( Eph_4:3 ): Israel will not enjoy it “until,” as Isaiah says, “the Spirit be poured upon us from on high” ( Isa_32:15-18 ). To this time the psalm looks on.

(v. 3) Secondly, the blessedness of the unity is set forth by the dew of Hermon. The dew of this lofty and dominating mountain descending upon the lower mountains of Zion is surely a figure of heavenly blessing poured upon restored Israel. When brethren dwell together in unity, there is nothing to hinder the grace of the Spirit, and the flow of heavenly blessing.

At last, restored Israel has reached the place where the Lord has commanded the blessing and are found in a condition in which they can enjoy life for evermore.