King James Version

What Does Psalms 135:19 Mean?

Psalms 135:19 in the King James Version says “Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron:” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 135 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron:”

Psalms 135:19 · KJV

Context

17

They have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths.

18

They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.

19

Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron:

20

Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.

21

Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

Read Psalms 135 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The psalm moves toward conclusion with antiphonal calls to blessing: 'Bless the LORD, O house of Israel: bless the LORD, O house of Aaron.' The Hebrew 'barakh' (bless) when directed toward God means to praise, adore, and acknowledge His greatness - the opposite of cursing. 'House of Israel' encompasses the entire covenant nation; 'house of Aaron' specifies the priestly family. This structured address mirrors temple liturgy where different groups responded in worship. The priests who ministered daily before the Lord are summoned alongside the people they served. Both are needed; neither is sufficient alone. The contrast with idol worshipers is implicit: rather than becoming like dead idols, Israel blesses the living God and receives blessing in return. The responsive, communal nature of this call reminds us that worship is corporate activity, not merely private devotion.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Temple worship involved antiphonal responses between priests, Levites, and the gathered congregation. The distinction between 'house of Israel' and 'house of Aaron' reflects Israel's organized worship structure established at Sinai. Priests served specific liturgical functions, but all Israel participated in worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean for different groups to unite in blessing the LORD?
  2. How can the whole church join together in praise?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
בֵּ֥ית1 of 10

“O house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

יִ֭שְׂרָאֵל2 of 10

“of Israel”

H3478

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

בָּרֲכ֥וּ3 of 10

“Bless”

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֶת4 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָֽה׃5 of 10

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

בֵּ֥ית6 of 10

“O house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אַ֝הֲרֹ֗ן7 of 10

“of Aaron”

H175

aharon, the brother of moses

בָּרֲכ֥וּ8 of 10

“Bless”

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֶת9 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָֽה׃10 of 10

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 135:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 135:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 115:9-11Revelation 19:5Psalms 118:1-4Psalms 148:14Psalms 145:10Psalms 147:19-20

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