King James Version
What Does Psalms 135:20 Mean?
“Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.”
Psalms 135:20 · KJV
Context
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.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe antiphonal pattern expands: 'Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.' The Levites, descendants of Jacob's third son, served temple functions distinct from Aaronic priests - they were musicians, gatekeepers, teachers, and assistants. Their inclusion ensures no worship servant is overlooked. Most significantly, 'ye that fear the LORD' extends beyond ethnic Israel to include all who reverence Yahweh. This phrase may indicate proselytes or God-fearers - Gentiles drawn to Israel's God. If so, the psalm anticipates the expansion of worship beyond ethnic boundaries. The 'fear of the LORD' (yir'at Yahweh) represents the fundamental disposition of true religion: reverent awe before the Holy One. This fourfold call (Israel, Aaron, Levi, God-fearers) creates a crescendo of praise encompassing all who worship the true God, prefiguring the universal church.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Levites received no territorial inheritance but were distributed throughout Israel as teachers and worship leaders. Their temple duties evolved over time, particularly after David organized them into divisions for music and service (1 Chronicles 23-26). The phrase 'those who fear the LORD' in similar contexts (Psalm 115:11, 13) may include non-Israelites who worshiped Yahweh.
Reflection Questions
- What characterizes those who truly "fear the LORD"?
- How does reverent fear lead to joyful blessing?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 10 wordsבֵּ֣ית1 of 10
“O house”
H1004a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
בָּרֲכ֥וּ3 of 10
“Bless”
H1288to 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
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בָּרֲכ֥וּ8 of 10
“Bless”
H1288to 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
H853properly, 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 135:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.