Psalm 133:1-3
A few things to note in this passage:
- verse 1: In the original Hebrew we can see that David uses the word “how” twice in this verse — it is better translated “How good! How pleasant!” He is stressing how VERY good and pleasant it is!
- verse 2: Here David compares unity to the fragrant oil used to anoint Aaron, the first priest of Israel. This powerful analogy shows us various characteristics of unity:
- It is pleasant to be around (like the fragrance of the anointing oil)
- It purifies and sets apart those it touches
- Its affect flows in abundance throughout a persons life, an organization, etc.
- It is a mark of God’s true priesthood (of which all Christians are currently a part, see 1 Peter 2)
- verse 3: Here David compares unity to dew falling from the enormous and distant Mount Hermon upon the small Mount Zion (in Jerusalem). It seems David chooses this analogy to show that unity is a gift that falls like dew from God’s abundance upon God’s people – bringing joy and life-sustaining blessing.
Click here to learn the author, date, theme, etc. of the Book of Psalms. Have a thought about this passage? Please add your comment at the bottom.
Psalm 133:1-3
A song of ascents. Of David.
1 How good and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in unity!2 It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
down upon the collar of his robes.3 It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the LORD bestows his blessing,
even life forevermore.
Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society. NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION® and NIV® are registered trademarks of International Bible Society. Use of either trademark for the offering of goods or services requires the prior written consent of International Bible Society.
|