Psalm 133 is a pilgrim song extolling the virtue of brotherly unity – both within extended families and the Israelite community as a whole as they come to worship together at one of the feasts in Jerusalem. Two metaphors are given to depict how good and how pleasant (verse 1) that unity is.
It is like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, coming down upon the edge of his robes.
It is like the dew of Hermon, coming down upon the mountains of Zion; for there the LORD commanded the blessing – life forever (vv. 2-3).
Both oil and water were symbols of God’s blessing upon his people. Precious (the best) oil was poured on the high priest’s head to consecrate him unto the LORD for leading the people in worship. The description of the oil running to the edge of his robes depicts it covering him completely, including his breastplate containing the names of all of the twelve tribes; making this a beautiful picture of unity and the LORD’s blessing. Likewise the dew flowing from the top of mighty Mount Hermon to Zion, the place of worship, was another vivid picture of the LORD’s blessing upon His people – both physical life through fertility, and especially spiritual life forever.
One of the great blessings of this life is when God’s people come together and worship Him in unity. To be at peace with God (vertical) and at peace with one another (horizontal) when we meet together is good and pleasant, brings abiding joy and blessing, and is a picture of life forever in our future heavenly home.
Yours and His
Ed Smith