Bless the LORD, O house of Levi: ye that fear the LORD, bless the LORD.

PSALMS 135:20KJV
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Psalms 135:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 135:20 mean?

Psalms 135:20 calls on the house of Levi and all those who fear the LORD to bless the LORD, meaning to praise and honor God. The verse is an invitation for both the priests (the Levites) and everyone who reveres God to join together in worship.

The psalmist is addressing the Levites, who were responsible for temple worship, as well as anyone who respects and stands in awe of the LORD (God’s covenant name, often written as “Yahweh”). This verse comes near the end of a psalm that is filled with calls to praise, and it widens the circle of worshipers from priests to all faithful people, highlighting that honoring God is not limited to a select group but is for everyone who reveres Him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 135:20

  • "Bless" (בָּרַךְ, barakh): This word means to speak well of, praise, or give honor. In the context of this verse, it is a call to actively praise God, not just a passive feeling.
  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is God’s personal covenant name, emphasizing a relationship with His people. The use of this name underlines the special bond between God and those called to bless Him.
  • "House" (בַּיִת, bayith): This refers to a family or group, here specifically the descendants of Levi, the tribe set apart for priestly duties.
  • "Levi" (לֵוִי, Levi): The tribe chosen for service in the temple, representing those with special roles in worship.
  • "Fear" (יָרֵא, yare’): This word means to stand in awe or reverence. It includes both respect and a sense of wonder, showing that anyone who truly honors God is invited to praise Him.

Why Psalms 135:20 matters

  • Psalms 135:20 shows that worship is not just for religious leaders but for all who honor God, breaking down any sense of exclusivity.
  • The verse connects the responsibilities of the Levites with the broader community, reminding readers that everyone has a part in praising God.
  • By using the covenant name "YHWH," the verse highlights the personal relationship God has with His people, making the call to praise more intimate and meaningful.

Where else these words appear

“Levi” Hebrew H3878 · used in 61 verses

  • Genesis 29:34 And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Now this time will my husband be joined unto me, because I have born him three sons: therefore was his name called Levi.
  • Numbers 16:10 And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also?
  • 1 Chronicles 6:38 The son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel.

“fear” Hebrew H3373 · used in 63 verses

  • Genesis 22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.
  • Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
  • Psalms 119:79 Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.