Verses 1-3

An exquisite gem of song describing the blessings of unity—suitable for a pilgrim song, when rich and poor, priest and peasant, might fraternise with Zion in sight.

2. Precious ointment] better, 'goodly oil.' It is doubtful whether the second relative clause is parallel to the first referring to the oil, or whether it refers to Aaron's beard. The Heb., like the AV, can be interpreted either way. It is probably best to take it as referring to the oil. So LXX takes it. The idea is to emphasise the richness and fulness of life which friendship gives.

3. RV 'Like the dew of Hermon that cometh down on the mountains of Zion.' Hermon is the most conspicuous feature in Palestine, standing in the extreme N. away beyond the springs of Jordan, and over 9,000 ft. in height. The writer evidently thought that the dewcame down from the distant Hermon cool and fresh, and settled on Zion. For there] i.e. in Zion. Peace and harmony are life to the nation.