Psalm 133 – Unity
Unity is such a beautiful word. Wonderful when found, yet often short-lived. What do we learn about unity from Psalm 133 – unity?
Psalm 133
Psalm 133 was most likely written when David was crowned king at Hebron. “It could date from the crowning of David at Hebron when the leaders of the nation were, for a time at least, of one heart and mind (see 2 Samuel 5:1; 1 Chronicles 12:38-40).” (James Montgomery Boice) Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
A song of ascents by David, it was appropriate for pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem. “During the pilgrimages, the Jews enjoyed an ecumenical experience on their way toward and in Jerusalem. The pilgrims came from many different walks of life, regions, and tribes, as they gathered for one purpose: the worship of the Lord in Jerusalem.” (VanGemeren) Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
David describes unity as good and pleasant.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (1)
“It is good because it reflects God’s heart and purpose of unity among His people (also described in John 17:20-23, Ephesians 1:9-10).
It is pleasant because it makes life together as God’s people so much more enjoyable than seasons when constant bickering and conflict dominate.” Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
Images of Unity in Psalm 133
David then goes on to describe how wonderful this unity is.
“It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe.
It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.” (2-3)
Oil refreshes the one receiving the oil and gives off a fragrant aroma.
“The picture in words shows that unity is a rich and abundant blessing – as this oil overflowed the head and came down the beard. It also shows that unity is a rare and precious blessing, because the suggestion is that this was holy anointing oil, which was not to be imitated (Exodus 30:22-33).” Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
Unity is like the dew covering Mount Hermon.
“King David used a second word picture to show how wonderful unity is among the people of God. It is also like the rich dew that covers Mount Hermon, making it green and moist. It is a distinct contrast to the dry wilderness found in other parts of Israel. Unity among God’s people makes life thriving and healthy.” Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
Unity
Two aspects of unity, according to Webster, are: “the quality or state of not being multiple; a condition of harmony.” It is a state of being one, in agreement.
In the Bible, unity “refers to the state of being one or in harmony with others, particularly within the body of Christ. It is a central theme in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of believers being united in faith, purpose, and love.” Topical Bible: Unity
“The idea of unity among God’s people is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, highlighting the importance of peace, love, and cooperation within the Body of Christ. Unity fosters a sense of belonging, support, and shared purpose among believers, creating a strong and unbreakable bond that reflects the love and character of God.” Psalms 133 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary – God’s Blessing
Unity reflects God’s nature and testifies to God’s love and truth to the world. It can be especially hard to find where people dwell together in a family. “This unity is tested, because these brethren dwell together. In many ways it is easier to have some kind of unity with those distant. To dwell together means the bonds of unity and peace will be at times tested.” Psalm 133 – Enduring Word
Families can often be hotbeds for disunity and discord. We only need look at the first family, Adam and Eve and their sons, to see this.
Short-Lived Nature of Unity
As wonderful as this unity is, its frequently short-lived. In Acts of the Apostles, we hear how the early Christian community lived together in harmony, only to be followed shortly after this by stories of disagreement and disunity.
The unity Israel found when the twelve tribes were finally joined under David’s leadership was also short-lived. David’s son Absalom led a revolt against David (2 Samuel 13-19). Solomon was able to hold the tribes together but after his death the tribes split into two nations, the northern kingdom of Israel, with its capital at Samaria, and the southern kingdom of Judah, retaining Jerusalem as its capital.
Unity doesn’t require uniformity. “The body of Christ is diverse, with different gifts and functions, yet it is called to operate in harmony.” Topical Bible: Unity
But unity does require the willingness to listen to and respect others’ opinions, something often in short supply.
Psalm 133 – Unity
Perhaps unity is all the more beautiful because of its rarity. Psalm 133 – Unity reminds us of how wonderful it is when it is achieved.
“In a world often marked by discord, this Psalm serves as a poignant reminder of the strength found in unity, encouraging readers to embrace collaboration and mutual respect.” Psalm 133 Summary (Meaning, Lessons & Key Verses)
Are you able to live in harmony with those around you? What keeps you from this unity?
(For another take on this psalm, see Psalm 133: In Search of Unity – Patricia M Robertson)
This post is part of a series of blog posts on the Psalms. Sign up to follow this blog and receive a free copy of Still Dancing, the second book in my Dancing through Life Series. click here to sign up
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