Psalm 135 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

135:1-3

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.

135:4-7

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

135:6

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

135:8-9

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

135:10-12

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

135:13

heritage — or, “possession.”

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

135:14

will judge — do justice (Psalm 72:2).

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

135:15-18

(Compare Psalm 115:4-8).

135:18

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

135:19-21

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

135:21

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