Font Size

Verses 1-3

Psalm 135:1-21. A Psalm of praise, in which God‘s relations to His Church, His power in the natural world, and in delivering His people, are contrasted with the vanity of idols and idol-worship.

In the general call for praise, the priests, that stand in the house of the Lord, are specially mentioned.

Verses 4-7

God‘s choice of Israel is the first reason assigned for rendering praise; the next, His manifested greatness in creation and providence.

Verse 6

heaven, and … seas, and all … ends of the earth — denote universality.

Verse 8-9

The last plague [Exodus 12:29 ] is cited to illustrate His “tokens and wonders.”

Verses 10-12

The conquest of Canaan was by God‘s power, not that of the people.

Verse 13

heritage — or, “possession.”

name … memorial — Each denote that by which God is made known.

Verse 14

will judge — do justice (Psalm 72:2).

repent himself — change His dealings (Psalm 90:13).

Verses 15-18

(Compare Psalm 115:4-8).

Verse 18

are like unto them — or, “shall be like,” etc. Idolaters become spiritually stupid and perish with their idols (Isaiah 1:31).

Verses 19-21

(Compare Psalm 115:9-11). There we have “trust” for “bless” here.

Verse 21

out of Zion — (Compare Psalm 110:2; Psalm 134:3). From the Church, as a center, His praise is diffused throughout the earth.