Psalms 132:16
I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.
Original Language Analysis
וְֽ֭כֹהֲנֶיהָ
her priests
H3548
וְֽ֭כֹהֲנֶיהָ
her priests
Strong's:
H3548
Word #:
1 of 6
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
אַלְבִּ֣ישׁ
I will also clothe
H3847
אַלְבִּ֣ישׁ
I will also clothe
Strong's:
H3847
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
וַ֝חֲסִידֶ֗יהָ
and her saints
H2623
וַ֝חֲסִידֶ֗יהָ
and her saints
Strong's:
H2623
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)
Cross References
2 Chronicles 6:41Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.Psalms 132:9Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.Isaiah 61:10I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.John 16:24Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
Historical Context
True worship requires both priestly mediation and congregational participation. When priests properly ministered (as under Hezekiah, Josiah, Ezra-Nehemiah), corporate worship flourished and joy characterized God's people. The ultimate fulfillment comes through Christ our High Priest and the joyful worship of the redeemed (Revelation 7:9-10; 19:1-7).
Questions for Reflection
- How does being 'clothed with salvation' differ from being clothed with righteousness?
- What is the relationship between priestly ministry and congregational joy?
- How does experiencing salvation (not just knowing about it) affect ministry?
- In what ways does authentic worship produce 'shouting aloud for joy'?
- How does Christ as our High Priest clothe believers with salvation?
Analysis & Commentary
Spiritual blessing is promised: 'I will also clothe her priests with salvation; and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.' This verse parallels and enhances verse 9's prayer. The phrase 'clothe her priests with salvation' improves on the prayer's 'righteousness' (v. 9) - God will provide not just moral uprightness but salvation itself. 'Salvation' (yeshua) means deliverance, victory, rescue. Priests clothed in salvation minister from experienced grace, not mere dutiful obedience. The parallel 'her saints shall shout aloud for joy' fulfills verse 9's request, adding 'aloud' (ranan ranan - doubled verb) for emphasis - exuberant, unrestrainable joy. When God dwells among His people, priests experience salvation and saints experience joy. This describes vibrant, grace-filled worship community where leaders know salvation experientially and people respond with authentic gladness.