Psalms 133:3

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.

As the dew {H2919} of Hermon {H2768}, and as the dew that descended {H3381} upon the mountains {H2042} of Zion {H6726}: for there the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} the blessing {H1293}, even life {H2416} for evermore {H5769}.

It is like the dew of Hermon that settles on the mountains of Tziyon. For it was there that ADONAI ordained the blessing of everlasting life.

It is like the dew of Hermon falling on the mountains of Zion. For there the LORD has bestowed the blessing of life forevermore.

Like the dew of Hermon, That cometh down upon the mountains of Zion: For there Jehovah commanded the blessing, Even life for evermore.

Commentary

Psalms 133:3 beautifully concludes a short, powerful psalm about the blessing of unity. This verse paints a vivid picture, comparing the refreshing nature of brotherly unity to the life-giving dew.

Context

Psalm 133 is one of the "Songs of Ascents" (Psalms 120-134), sung by pilgrims as they made their way to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. The preceding verses praise the beauty and goodness of "brethren to dwell together in unity." Verse 3 extends this metaphor, drawing a powerful comparison between the abundant dew of Mount Hermon and the blessing commanded by the LORD on Zion.

  • Mount Hermon: Located far to the north of Israel, Mount Hermon is the highest peak in the region, perpetually snow-capped. Its melting snows and abundant dew were a crucial source of water, feeding the Jordan River and symbolizing freshness, fertility, and divine provision in an arid land.
  • Mountains of Zion: Refers to Jerusalem, particularly the temple mount, which was the spiritual and political heart of Israel. It was the place where God's presence dwelt and where the people gathered for worship.

The imagery doesn't suggest a literal flow of dew from Hermon to Zion, but rather compares the *quality* and *effect* of Hermon's life-sustaining moisture to the abundant blessing that descends upon Zion when God's people are unified.

Key Themes

  • Life-Giving Abundance: Just as dew sustains life in dry climates, God's blessing brings vitality and flourishing. The comparison to Hermon's dew emphasizes its richness and plentifulness, indicating an overflowing measure of divine favor.
  • Divine Authority and Intent: The phrase "the LORD commanded the blessing" highlights God's sovereign will and authoritative decree. This blessing is not accidental or conditional on human effort alone, but a direct, intentional act of God. It underscores that God actively wills good for His people, particularly when they live in harmony.
  • Unity as a Conduit for Blessing: The entire psalm links the blessing directly to the context of unity. Where God's people dwell together in harmony, laying aside differences and fostering mutual love, the conditions are ripe for His commanded blessing to flow abundantly. This reinforces the idea that Christian unity is pleasing to God and brings forth His favor.
  • Eternal Life: "Life for evermore" points to an enduring, unending quality of life that transcends mere physical existence. It speaks to spiritual vitality, peace, and ultimately, eternal life in fellowship with God, which is the ultimate blessing promised to believers.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew verb for "commanded," tzavah (ืฆื•ื”), is strong and authoritative, used elsewhere for divine decrees (e.g., God commanding creation into existence in Genesis 1). This emphasizes that the blessing is not merely a wish or a hope, but a sure declaration from the Almighty. The phrase "life for evermore" (ื—ึทื™ึผึดื™ื ืขึทื“ ื”ึธืขื•ึนืœึธื, chayyim 'ad ha'olam) signifies a blessing that is not temporary but perpetual, embodying God's desire for His people to experience full, unending life.

Practical Application

Psalms 133:3 serves as a powerful reminder of the profound connection between unity among believers and the blessings of God. It encourages us to actively pursue and maintain peace and harmony within our families, churches, and communities. When we lay aside differences and strive for genuine fellowship, we create an environment where God's life-giving blessing, including spiritual vitality and the promise of eternal life, can truly flourish. This verse motivates us to value unity not just for its own sake, but as a path to experiencing the abundant life God desires for His people.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 28:8

    The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

  • Psalms 42:8

    [Yet] the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song [shall be] with me, [and] my prayer unto the God of my life.

  • Leviticus 25:21

    Then I will command my blessing upon you in the sixth year, and it shall bring forth fruit for three years.

  • Deuteronomy 4:48

    From Aroer, which [is] by the bank of the river Arnon, even unto mount Sion, which [is] Hermon,

  • 1 John 5:11

    And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

  • Romans 5:21

    That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

  • Psalms 16:11

    Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.
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