Psalms 135:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 135:20
20 Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.
Chapter Context
Psalms 135 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, obedience, holiness. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 135:20
20 Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.
Analysis
The antiphonal pattern expands: 'Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.' The Levites, descendants of Jacob's third son, served temple functions distinct from Aaronic priests - they were musicians, gatekeepers, teachers, and assistants. Their inclusion ensures no worship servant is overlooked. Most significantly, 'ye that fear the LORD' extends beyond ethnic Israel to include all who reverence Yahweh. This phrase may indicate proselytes or God-fearers - Gentiles drawn to Israel's God. If so, the psalm anticipates the expansion of worship beyond ethnic boundaries. The 'fear of the LORD' (yir'at Yahweh) represents the fundamental disposition of true religion: reverent awe before the Holy One. This fourfold call (Israel, Aaron, Levi, God-fearers) creates a crescendo of praise encompassing all who worship the true God, prefiguring the universal church.
Historical Context
Levites received no territorial inheritance but were distributed throughout Israel as teachers and worship leaders. Their temple duties evolved over time, particularly after David organized them into divisions for music and service (1 Chronicles 23-26). The phrase 'those who fear the LORD' in similar contexts (Psalm 115:11, 13) may include non-Israelites who worshiped Yahweh.
Reflection
- What characterizes those who truly "fear the LORD"?
- How does reverent fear lead to joyful blessing?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord