Psalm 133:1-3; Psalm 134:1-3
Q.1. What was special about the anointing oil with which Aaron and the priests were consecrated? Why is unity similar to this anointing oil? What does the dew of Hermon do for Mount Zion? – (Ps.133:1-3 c.f. Ex.30:22-33)
It is not easy for us to appreciate the imagery used by the Psalmist here. The anointing oil used to consecrate Aaron and the priests had the most fragrant of perfumes – 23 “Take also for yourself the finest of spices: of flowing myrrh five hundred shekels, and of fragrant cinnamon half as much, two hundred and fifty, and of fragrant cane two hundred and fifty, 24 and of cassia five hundred, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, and of olive oil a hin. 25 You shall make of these a holy anointing oil, a perfume mixture, the work of a perfumer; it shall be a holy anointing oil (Ex.30:23-25). This anointing oil was set apart for God alone – whoever shall mix any like it or whoever puts any of it on a layman shall be cut off from his people (Ex.30:33). When Aaron was anointed, the fragrance filled the Temple precinct, as did Mary’s costly anointing of Jesus, which filled the house with fragrance (Jn.12:3). The Psalmist stated that this is what the unity of believers is like. It is precious and fragrant. It is also refreshing – like the dew of (Mount) Hermon (Ps.133:3), flowing down to Mount Zion.
Q.2. Who were the pilgrims praying for as they journeyed to Jerusalem? What makes God worthy of such regard? Can we still apply this today? – (Ps.134:1-3)
This is another of the Songs of Ascents, sung as pilgrims travelled from the tribal areas throughout the Promised Land, to the Tabernacle in Jerusalem. Their thoughts were on the Lord – He who made heaven and earth (Ps.134:3). Their prayers were also for the officiating priests – the servants of the Lord (Ps.134:1). The priests were rostered on day and night to serve the Lord. They also wrote and prepared songs of praise and thanksgiving to God, including instrumentation. These songs blessed the people (1 Chr.25:1-8). It is good for us to pray for the servants of the Lord who lead us and teach us God’s Word.