Psalm 133

Introduction.—Ps. 133 is a short but beautiful poem extolling the blessedness of brotherly unity. Such unity characterized the meetings of the Israelites at the great festivals of Jerusalem. Harmony and brotherly love prevailed on these occasions.

On the superscription see Introduction to Ps. 120; see also pp. 616, 625, 627.

1. Brethren. The term denotes a tie of intimate relationship. David sang Ps. 133 when his relatives and friends were in hiding in the cave of Adullam (see PP 658).

2. Ointment. Heb. shemen, “oil,” here evidently not common oil, but the sacred oil with which the high priest was anointed (Ex. 29:7; 30:23–33). It had a sweet perfume; it was holy; it was diffusive. When it was poured upon Aaron’s head, it dropped upon his garments. So it is with brotherly love. It blesses all with its sweet and holy influence.

3. Dew of Hermon. A symbol of refreshment. Brotherly love born of heaven refreshes and revives. It is a foretaste of the fellowship enjoyed in the heavenly home. Because of the sympathy and affection which his associates showed him, David could sing this psalm while he was in the cave of Adullam (PP 658).

Ellen G. White comments

1 AH 179; ML 276; PP 658