Psalms 135:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 135:5
5 For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.
Chapter Context
Psalms 135 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, obedience, truth. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 135:5
5 For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.
Analysis
Personal testimony anchors theological truth: 'For I know that the LORD is great.' The shift to first person singular emphasizes experiential knowledge - 'yada' implies intimate, relational knowing, not mere intellectual assent. The psalmist declares Yahweh 'gadol' (great, magnificent) and 'above all gods.' This is not polytheism but polemical language acknowledging what pagans worship while asserting Yahweh's absolute supremacy. The title 'our Lord' (Adonenu) adds covenant intimacy to divine majesty - the great God is 'ours.' This combination of transcendence and immanence characterizes biblical faith. Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 8:5-6: 'though there be that are called gods... to us there is but one God.' The believer's confidence rests not on abstract theology but personal encounter with the living God.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern religion was characterized by henotheism - worshiping one god while acknowledging others. Israel's prophets consistently challenged this, insisting that other 'gods' were mere idols with no actual divine power. The phrase 'above all gods' appears in Exodus 18:11 after Jethro witnessed the exodus, demonstrating how God's mighty acts revealed His supremacy.
Reflection
- How has your personal knowledge of God's greatness grown through experience?
- In what ways is the LORD greater than all other "gods" people worship today?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 48:1, 95:3, 97:9, Deuteronomy 10:17, Daniel 3:29
- References Lord: Psalms 89:6
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 40:22, 40:25