Praise the Lord’s Goodness: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 135

✨ Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 135, a hymn of praise, overflows with gratitude for God’s power, goodness, and faithfulness. From summoning His people to praise Him in the Temple to recounting His mighty acts in creation and history, the Psalm emphasizes God’s sovereignty over all things. It contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, urging us to fix our hearts on Him alone. This chapter isn’t merely a historical account; it’s a timeless invitation to recognize and celebrate the Lord’s unwavering goodness, demanding a response of heartfelt worship and obedience. Understanding this psalm helps us cultivate a deeper appreciation for God’s attributes and strengthens our commitment to living a life that reflects His glory. Consider getting a new email marketing campaign to share insights from Psalm 135 and deepen your church community’s spiritual journey.

📜 Introduction 📜

Psalm 135 is a vibrant call to worship, a liturgical masterpiece that echoes the heart of the Old Testament and resonates powerfully within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. It begins and ends with the resounding command, “Praise the Lord!” and meticulously details the reasons *why* we are to offer such unwavering praise. It’s a reminder that our faith isn’t blind adherence, but a grateful response to a God who has revealed Himself through His actions and His character. Let’s delve into its depths and uncover the treasures it holds, allowing it to transform our understanding of God’s goodness and our purpose in glorifying Him.

📖 Psalm 135:1-3 – The Summons to Praise 📖

(Psalm 135:1 KJV) Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; praise him, O ye servants of the Lord. (Psalm 135:1 NKJV) Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O you servants of the Lord!

The Psalm opens with an urgent summons. Three times the word “Praise” (הַֽלְלוּ־) appears, emphasizing the importance and immediacy of worship. The phrase “servants of the Lord” (עַבְדֵ֣י יְהֹוָה֒) refers not just to Levitical priests, but to all who are dedicated to God. The location, as hinted in verse 2, is the Temple. Remember the environmental context: the Temple was the physical and spiritual center of Israel, a place meticulously designed to facilitate communion with God.

St. Athanasius, in his letters, often reminds us that true service to God is rooted in love and manifested in obedience. As he writes, “Τὴν γὰρ ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ τηρήσωμεν, ἵνα καὶ αὐτὸς τηρήσῃ ἡμᾶς” (Tēn gar agapēn tou Theou tērēsōmen, hina kai autos tērēsē hēmas) – “Let us keep the love of God, that He may also keep us” (Athanasius, *Festal Letter 5*).

Spiritual Application: This initial call applies directly to our lives. Are we truly servants of the Lord, offering our lives as a living sacrifice of praise? Or are we merely going through the motions? Let us examine our hearts and ensure our actions reflect our commitment to Him.

(Psalm 135:2 KJV) Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. (Psalm 135:2 NKJV) You who stand in the house of the Lord, In the courts of the house of our God!

The verse specifies *where* this praise is to originate: “in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God.” This points to the Levitical priests and temple staff. The verb “stand” (עֹמְדִים֙) implies continuous service, an attitude of readiness before God. The courts were the designated areas for worship and sacrifice.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, commenting on the Old Testament sacrifices, notes that they foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. He writes, “Τύπος γὰρ ἦν ὁ θάνατος τῶν ζῴων, τοῦ θανάτου τοῦ Χριστοῦ” (Typos gar ēn ho thanatos tōn zōōn, tou thanatou tou Christou) – “For the death of the animals was a type of the death of Christ” (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Hebrews 9:11*).

Spiritual Application: While we may not physically stand in the Temple, our hearts are to be temples of the Holy Spirit. Do we cultivate an atmosphere of reverence and praise within ourselves, ready to commune with God at any moment? Let’s aim to make our lives a continuous liturgy before Him.

(Psalm 135:3 KJV) Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good; sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant. (Psalm 135:3 NKJV) Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; Sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant.

Here, the *reason* for praise is revealed: “for the Lord is good” (כִּי־טֹ֣וב יְהֹוָ֑ה). This isn’t merely a statement of fact, but a profound theological truth. God’s goodness is the foundation of His character and the source of all blessing. The word “pleasant” (נָעִים֙) highlights the joy and delight that come from praising Him. This is not a burdensome task, but a refreshing and uplifting experience.

St. Basil the Great emphasizes the inherent goodness of God as the ultimate source of all creation. He says, “Ἡ γὰρ ἀγαθότης τοῦ Θεοῦ, αἰτία τῆς ὑπάρξεως τῶν πάντων” (Hē gar agathotēs tou Theou, aitia tēs hyparxeōs tōn pantōn) – “For the goodness of God is the cause of the existence of all things” (Basil the Great, *Homily on Psalm 33*).

Spiritual Application: When we are faced with hardship or doubt, we must remember that God is inherently good. His goodness doesn’t depend on our circumstances, but is a constant and unchanging attribute. Let us cling to this truth and allow it to fuel our praise, even in the midst of trials.

🌊 Psalm 135:4-7 – The Lord’s Choice and Creation 🌊

(Psalm 135:4 KJV) For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure. (Psalm 135:4 NKJV) For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure.

The Psalm shifts from the act of praise to the *reason* for praise: God’s election of Israel. “Jacob” (יַעֲקֹב֙) and “Israel” (יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל) are used synonymously, representing the chosen people. The phrase “peculiar treasure” (לִסְגֻלָּתֹו) highlights the unique relationship between God and His people. This election was not based on Israel’s merit, but solely on God’s sovereign will.

St. Gregory of Nyssa reflects on God’s unmerited grace in choosing humanity, stating, “Οὐ γὰρ διὰ τὴν ἡμετέραν ἀξίαν, ἀλλὰ διὰ τὴν ἰδίαν αὐτοῦ φιλανθρωπίαν” (Ou gar dia tēn hēmeteran axian, alla dia tēn idian autou philanthropian) – “Not because of our worthiness, but because of His own love for mankind” (Gregory of Nyssa, *On the Making of Man*).

Spiritual Application: We, as Christians, are now part of that chosen people, grafted into the vine through Christ. Do we recognize the immense privilege and responsibility that comes with being chosen by God? Let us strive to live lives worthy of this calling.

(Psalm 135:5 KJV) For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. (Psalm 135:5 NKJV) For I know that the Lord is great, And our Lord is above all gods.

A declaration of God’s greatness and supremacy. The Psalmist affirms “I know” (אֲנִ֣י יָדַ֔עְתִּי) – a personal, experiential knowledge of God. God’s Lordship transcends any other supposed deities. This is a direct challenge to polytheistic beliefs prevalent in the ancient Near East.

Spiritual Application: In a world filled with idols of wealth, power, and pleasure, we must constantly reaffirm God’s supremacy in our lives. Do we truly believe that He is above all else? Our actions must speak louder than our words.

(Psalm 135:6 KJV) Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. (Psalm 135:6 NKJV) Whatever the Lord pleases He does, In heaven and in earth, In the seas and in all deep places.

God’s absolute sovereignty is emphasized. “Whatsoever the Lord pleased” (כֹּ֭ל אֲשֶׁר־חָפֵ֣ץ יְהֹוָ֣ה) indicates His unrestricted power and authority over all creation, encompassing heaven, earth, the seas, and even the deepest places. This highlights His comprehensive control and governance.

Spiritual Application: Recognizing God’s sovereignty brings peace in times of uncertainty. Trusting that He is in control allows us to surrender our anxieties and fears to Him. This verse invites us to accept His will as ultimately good and perfect.

(Psalm 135:7 KJV) He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings for the rain; he bringeth the wind out of his treasuries. (Psalm 135:7 NKJV) He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He makes lightnings for the rain; He brings the wind out of His treasuries.

An example of God’s power and control over nature. The verse speaks of the hydrological cycle: vapors rising from the earth (עֹלֶ֣ה נְשִׂאִים֮ מִקְצֵ֪י הָ֫אָ֥רֶץ), lightning for the rain (בְּרָקִ֖ים לַמָּטָ֑ר עָשָׂ֗ה), and wind from His treasuries (מֹֽוצִיא־ר֭וּחַ מֵאֹוצְרֹתָֽיו). These natural phenomena are attributed to God’s design and action.

The Coptic Church recognizes the interconnectedness of creation, viewing nature as a manifestation of God’s glory. Understanding the scientific explanation of these phenomena enhances, rather than diminishes, our appreciation for God’s intricate design.

Spiritual Application: The natural world is filled with signs of God’s power and wisdom. Take time to observe the beauty and complexity of creation, recognizing it as a reflection of His glory. This deeper appreciation of creation can lead to a stronger connection with the Creator.

⚔️ Psalm 135:8-14 – God’s Judgments and Compassion ⚔️

(Psalm 135:8 KJV) Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast. (Psalm 135:8 NKJV) He destroyed the firstborn of Egypt, Both of man and beast.

Recalling the Exodus event, specifically the tenth plague (מַכֵּ֣ה בְכֹורֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם). This highlights God’s judgment against Egypt for their oppression of Israel. It affected both humans and animals, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of His judgment. It is crucial to remember this happened in the specific historical and geographical context of the ancient Egypt, a civilization at the height of its power at the time.

Spiritual Application: God’s judgment is just and righteous. While we should not rejoice in the suffering of others, we must acknowledge that sin has consequences and that God will ultimately hold all accountable. This should inspire us to live lives of repentance and obedience.

(Psalm 135:9 KJV) Who sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants. (Psalm 135:9 NKJV) He sent signs and wonders into the midst of you, O Egypt, Upon Pharaoh and on all his servants.

Further emphasizes the miraculous nature of the plagues (אֹתֹת וּמֹפְתִים֙) sent to Egypt, impacting Pharaoh and his officials. These signs and wonders were not merely acts of power, but also messages intended to persuade Pharaoh to release Israel. The narrative also underscores that these weren’t just random occurrences but directed and intentional acts of God.

Spiritual Application: God continues to send signs and wonders into our lives, often in subtle ways. Are we paying attention? Are we open to receiving His messages and allowing them to guide us? We should reflect on His actions and remain observant in daily life.

(Psalm 135:10 KJV) Who smote great nations, and slew mighty kings; (Psalm 135:10 NKJV) He defeated many nations And slew mighty kings—

Expands the scope of God’s power beyond Egypt to encompass other nations (גּוֹיִ֣ם רַבִּ֑ים) and mighty kings (מְלָכִ֖ים עֲצוּמִים). This underscores God’s universal dominion and His ability to subdue any opposition. The use of the word “smote” (הִכָּה֙) indicates divine action and judgment against those who opposed His will.

Spiritual Application: No power on earth can withstand God’s might. When we face seemingly insurmountable challenges, we can find strength in knowing that He is greater than any obstacle. We are encouraged to trust in His protection and guidance, knowing that He is always with us.

(Psalm 135:11 KJV) Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan: (Psalm 135:11 NKJV) Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, And all the kingdoms of Canaan—

Specific examples of nations and kings defeated by God. Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, were formidable rulers whose defeat paved the way for Israel’s conquest of Canaan. These events highlight God’s promise to give the land to His people. Remember the geographical significance of Canaan: a land flowing with milk and honey, a promise of abundance and blessing.

Spiritual Application: Just as God delivered Israel from their enemies, He can deliver us from our own spiritual battles. We must trust in His promises and rely on His strength to overcome the challenges we face. This section is a clear reminder that divine intervention is possible and effective.

(Psalm 135:12 KJV) And gave their land for an heritage, an heritage unto Israel his people. (Psalm 135:12 NKJV) And gave their land as a heritage, A heritage to Israel His people.

The consequence of God’s victory: the land was given to Israel as an inheritance (נְתַ֣ן אַרְצָם֮ נַחֲלָ֪ה). This fulfilled God’s covenant promise to Abraham and his descendants. The term “heritage” (נַחֲלָה) denotes a lasting possession and blessing from God.

Spiritual Application: God’s blessings extend beyond the material. As believers, we have an inheritance in Christ, which includes eternal life and a place in His kingdom. These blessings are more valuable and lasting than any earthly possession.

(Psalm 135:13 KJV) Thy name, O Lord, endureth for ever; and thy memorial, O Lord, throughout all generations. (Psalm 135:13 NKJV) Your name, O Lord, endures forever, And Your fame, O Lord, throughout all generations.

A timeless assertion of God’s eternal nature (יְהֹוָה שִׁמְךָ֥ לְעֹולָ֑ם) and enduring fame (יְהֹוָה זִכְרְךָ֥ לְדֹר־וָדֹֽר). God’s name and His memorial will be remembered throughout all generations, signifying His unchanging character and lasting impact.

St. John Chrysostom often emphasizes the unchanging nature of God amidst the shifting sands of time. We can rely on His name as a constant source of strength and comfort.

Spiritual Application: God’s eternal nature provides stability in a changing world. By focusing on His unchanging character, we find solace and hope, regardless of our circumstances. This verse encourages us to remember and reflect on God’s faithfulness.

(Psalm 135:14 KJV) For the Lord will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants. (Psalm 135:14 NKJV) For the Lord will judge His people, And He will have compassion on His servants.

God’s actions involve both justice and compassion. The Lord judges His people (יָדִין יְהֹוָה֙ עַמֹּ֔ו) and shows compassion (וְעַל־עֲבָדָ֖יו יִתְנֶחָֽם). The word “repent” (יִתְנֶחָם) is used anthropomorphically to convey God’s concern and care for His servants.

Spiritual Application: Understanding that God balances justice and compassion encourages us to seek His forgiveness and to extend grace to others. We are called to emulate His character by being both just and merciful in our interactions.

🗿 Psalm 135:15-18 – The Vanity of Idols 🗿

(Psalm 135:15 KJV) The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. (Psalm 135:15 NKJV) The idols of the nations are silver and gold, The work of men’s hands.

A stark contrast between the living God and lifeless idols. These idols (אֱלִילֵ֣י הַ֭גֹּויִם) are made of silver and gold, crafted by human hands (מַעֲשֵׂ֣י יְדֵי־אָדָֽם). This highlights the inherent futility of worshipping inanimate objects. In a world that prizes aesthetics and material possessions, this statement underscores the emptiness of relying on physical objects for spiritual fulfillment.

Spiritual Application: It is essential to examine what we place our trust in. Are we worshipping the idols of materialism, success, or worldly recognition, or are we placing our faith in the one true God?

(Psalm 135:16 KJV) They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not; (Psalm 135:16 NKJV) They have mouths, but they do not speak; Eyes they have, but they do not see;

Continuing the description of idols, emphasizing their lack of life and power. Though they have mouths (פֶּה־לָהֶ֣ם וְלֹ֣א יְדַבֵּ֑רוּ), they cannot speak. Though they have eyes (עֵינַ֥יִם לָהֶ֗ם וְלֹ֣א יִרְא֑וּ), they cannot see. This underscores their inability to provide guidance or protection. The lifelessness of the idols is a stark contrast to the active, living God described earlier in the psalm.

Spiritual Application: Seeking guidance from worldly sources that lack spiritual insight is futile. True wisdom and guidance come from God, who sees and understands all things. Are we relying on God’s wisdom or on the empty promises of the world?

(Psalm 135:17 KJV) They have ears, but they hear not; neither is there any breath in their mouths. (Psalm 135:17 NKJV) They have ears, but they do not hear; Nor is there any breath in their mouths.

Further detailing the impotence of idols. They have ears (אָזְנַ֣יִם לָהֶ֗ם וְלֹ֣א יַאֲזִ֑ינוּ), but cannot hear. There is no breath in their mouths (אַף־אֵ֥ין־רֽוּחַ בְּפִיהֶֽם), symbolizing the absence of life. This serves as a critique of idolatry, emphasizing the absence of any real power or connection with the divine.

Spiritual Application: Engaging in practices that are spiritually empty or devoid of life and truth is pointless. We should seek experiences and activities that foster a genuine connection with God and that fill us with His Spirit.

(Psalm 135:18 KJV) They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them. (Psalm 135:18 NKJV) Those who make them are like them; So is everyone who trusts in them.

A powerful statement about the spiritual consequences of idolatry. Those who create idols (כְּמֹהֶ֣ם יִֽהְי֣וּ עֹשֵׂיהֶ֑ם) and those who trust in them (כֹּ֖ל אֲשֶׁר־בֹּטֵ֣חַ בָּהֶֽם) become like them – lifeless and spiritually barren. This highlights the transformative power of worship and the importance of directing it towards the true God.

Spiritual Application: The objects and ideals we worship shape who we become. By focusing on the true God, we become more like Him, reflecting His love, compassion, and truth. Be mindful of where you place your trust and what influence it has on your character.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Psalm 135:19-21 – Call to Praise 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

(Psalm 135:19 KJV) Bless the Lord, O house of Israel: bless the Lord, O house of Aaron: (Psalm 135:19 NKJV) Bless the Lord, O house of Israel! Bless the Lord, O house of Aaron!

A renewed call to bless the Lord. The “house of Israel” (בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל) refers to the entire nation, and the “house of Aaron” (בֵּ֣ית אַהֲרֹ֔ן) to the priesthood. Both are summoned to bless the Lord, indicating the universal duty to worship. This highlights the importance of communal worship and the shared responsibility of praising God.

Spiritual Application: The entire community of believers is called to bless the Lord. By participating in corporate worship, we strengthen our faith and encourage one another. It is important to actively engage in praising God with fellow believers.

(Psalm 135:20 KJV) Bless the Lord, O house of Levi: ye that fear the Lord, bless the Lord. (Psalm 135:20 NKJV) Bless the Lord, O house of Levi! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord!

The call extends to the “house of Levi” (בֵּ֣ית הַלֵּוִ֑י), the Levitical tribe responsible for temple service, and to all who “fear the Lord” (יִרְאֵ֖י יְהֹוָ֣ה), those who reverence and obey Him. This emphasizes the inclusive nature of worship, embracing both those in formal roles and those who genuinely fear God.

Spiritual Application: Worship is not limited to clergy or specific groups within the church. All who have reverence for God are called to bless Him. Every believer should find ways to express their fear (respect) and love for God.

(Psalm 135:21 KJV) Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 135:21 NKJV) Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, Who dwells at Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!

The Psalm concludes with a benediction and a final call to praise. The Lord is blessed “out of Zion” (מִצִּיֹּ֑ון), referring to Jerusalem, the location of the Temple. This highlights the importance of the Temple as the center of worship. The verse closes with a resounding “Praise the Lord!” (הַֽלְלוּ־יָֽהּ), emphasizing the continuous and joyful nature of worship.

Spiritual Application: The benediction reminds us of God’s presence in our lives and in our community. As we gather together to worship, we acknowledge that He dwells among us. We are called to continuously praise Him for His goodness and faithfulness.

🔑 Key Reflections and Teachings 🔑

From Psalm 135, we glean several pivotal teachings:

• 💡 The Importance of Corporate Worship: The call to different groups (Israel, Aaron, Levi) emphasizes the collective nature of praise.
• ✨ God’s Sovereignty: The Psalm underscores God’s absolute authority over creation and history.
• 📖 The Futility of Idolatry: The contrast between the living God and lifeless idols serves as a warning against misplaced worship.
• 📜 God’s Goodness and Faithfulness: The Psalm reminds us of God’s unchanging character and His commitment to His people.
• 🕊️ The Balance of Justice and Compassion: God’s actions involve both judgment and mercy, reflecting His perfect character.

❓ FAQ ❓

Q: Why does the Psalm focus so much on God’s actions in the past?

A: Recalling God’s past actions, especially His deliverance of Israel, reinforces our faith in His ability to act in the present. It reminds us of His faithfulness and provides hope for the future. By reflecting on His past deeds, we build our trust in His unchanging character.

Q: How does this Psalm apply to Christians today?

A: While the Psalm is rooted in the Old Testament context, its message of praise and worship is timeless. As Christians, we recognize God’s ultimate act of redemption through Jesus Christ. We are called to praise Him for His salvation and to live lives that reflect His glory.

Q: What is the significance of contrasting God with idols?

A: The contrast between God and idols highlights the emptiness of placing our trust in anything other than the true God. Idols represent worldly desires, material possessions, and false gods that cannot provide true fulfillment. This comparison directs our worship to the only one worthy of our devotion.

Q: How can I apply the call to “fear the Lord” in my daily life?

A: Fearing the Lord does not mean being afraid of Him, but rather having a deep reverence and respect for His holiness and authority. It involves obeying His commands, living according to His will, and seeking to honor Him in all that we do. Fearing the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and leads to a life of blessing and purpose.

🙏 Conclusion 🙏

Psalm 135 is a powerful reminder of God’s goodness, sovereignty, and unwavering love. It calls us to continuous praise and worship, highlighting the futility of idolatry and the blessings of trusting in the one true God. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are heirs to a rich tradition of liturgical worship, which echoes the sentiments expressed in this Psalm. Let us cultivate a heart of gratitude, recognizing God’s hand in our lives and in the world around us. May we strive to live lives that reflect His glory, drawing others to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from knowing Him. *Praise the Lord, for He is Good*; let this be the anthem of our hearts and the driving force behind our actions.

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Psalm 135, Praise the Lord, God’s Goodness, Coptic Orthodox, Biblical Commentary, Scripture Study, Old Testament, Worship, Idolatry, Sovereignty

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