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Day 334

Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"

Day 334 – Psalm 133

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Psalm 133:1

SUPERSCRIPTION: A Song of Ascents. Of David.

We have another simple superscription that identifies the author of this Song of Ascents. This was David’s third psalm in this collection of special psalms.

WISDOM GAINED THROUGH HARD EXPERIENCE

Israel was essentially made up of brethren. Though there were twelve distinct tribes, they were all closely related to each other. Sadly the concept of a closely-knit brotherhood was lost on them. It took the painful experience of war to help the nation to appreciate the significance of unity.

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
For brethren to dwell together in unity!
It is like the precious oil upon the head,
Running down on the beard,
The beard of Aaron,
Running down on the edge of his garments.
It is like the dew of Hermon,
Descending upon the mountains of Zion;
For there the LORD commanded the blessing-
Life forevermore.”
Psalm 133:1-3

1. David’s context

a) King Saul sought to kill David.
b) Even after his death the house of Saul and the house of David was at war.
c) Many were killed in battle because of this terrible and unnecessary conflict.

2. Brethren dwelling in unity

a) It is good.
b) It is pleasant.

3. First imagery employed to describe the significance of unity

a) The precious oil of anointing used to consecrate Aaron as the high priest.
b) Unity should be regarded as both beautiful and holy.

4. Second imagery employed to emphasise the significance of unity

a) It will be blessed by the Lord Himself.
b) This blessing is “life forevermore”.

It is well compared to abundant life-giving dew (water), that God gives to the holy city.