Bible Commentaries
Psalms 134

Introduction

A.M. 2964. B.C. 1040.

This Psalm is thought by some to have been designed to be sung at the shutting of the gates of the temple. Its form seems to be dramatical. In the first two verses the high-priest is supposed to speak, by way of exhortation, to the priests and Levites to perform the duties of their place and calling. And in the last verse they pray for God’s blessing upon him who had thus admonished them.

Verses 1-2

Psalms 134:1-2. Behold, bless ye the Lord, &c. Attend to your duty, O ye ministers of the Lord; who not only by day, but by night also, reverently wait upon him in his house, 1 Chronicles 9:33. Employ your hearts and tongues in his praises, and cease not to declare how great and good he is.

Lift up your hands, &c. Unto God, in prayer and praise; in the sanctuary In that holy house of God where you stand; or, in holiness, as the margin reads it, and as is prescribed 1 Timothy 2:8. Do not therefore content yourselves with lifting up your hands, but see that this be done with pure and holy hearts. And bless the Lord Be fervent and unwearied in your devotions and praises.

Verse 3

Psalms 134:3. The Lord that made heaven and earth And therefore has all the blessings of both at his disposal, those of the upper and those of the nether springs; bless thee O priest, who dost engage and encourage us in this blessed work; out of Zion Where he dwells, and from whence he hears the prayers of his people, and gives them the blessings which they need.