Psalms133

Psalm 133 extols the profound goodness and pleasantness of brethren dwelling together in unity. It likens this harmonious state to the precious anointing oil upon Aaron's head, flowing down to his garments, symbolizing consecration and divine favor. Furthermore, unity is compared to the life-giving dew of Hermon descending upon Zion, where the Lord bestows blessing and eternal life.
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The Joy and Blessing of Communal Unity

1
A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! ​
2
It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; ​
3
As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore. ​

Study Notes for Psalms 133

Verse 1

This verse establishes the central theme, emphasizing that the unity of God's people is both ethically 'good' and experientially 'pleasant.' As a Song of Ascents, it likely celebrates the harmony of the tribes gathered in Jerusalem for pilgrimage and worship.

Verse 2

The first metaphor compares unity to the sacred anointing oil (shemen) used to consecrate Aaron (Exod 29:7). This oil symbolizes holiness, divine appointment, and abundant blessing that flows from the head (leadership) down to permeate the entire community.

Verse 3

The second metaphor illustrates the fertile, life-giving nature of unity, comparing it to the abundant dew of Mount Hermon that refreshes the often drier mountains of Zion (Jerusalem). Unity creates the environment where the Lord has sovereignly 'commanded the blessing,' culminating in eternal life ('life for evermore').

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