Yahweh Bless You From Zion – Psalm 134

The name Yahweh is mentioned five times in this very short psalm.  Yahweh is the name that distinguishes the true and living God from all other gods.  At one point in Israel’s later history they ceased pronouncing this name.  That is a not a biblical decision.  Scripture mentions it all the time, as you see in this psalm.  In fact, many Jews will now use the term Hashem (“the name”) in place of Yahweh, or even write G_d to remind them not to say God.  God does not mind us using His name, as long, of course, as we do not use it in vain.

A Song of Ascents.

Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD!  Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the LORD!

May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!  (Psalm 134 ESV)

This is the last pilgrimage song and is perhaps the one sung at the end of the festival as the pilgrims are about to set out for home.  They address the servants of the Lord, perhaps the priests and Levites who minister in the temple and urge them to lift their hands toward the holy place and bless Yahweh.  In return, the servants of Yahweh utter a blessing of departure to them, “Yahweh bless you from Zion.”  Lifting hands to praise God has a long tradition. Recognizing those God has used to lead us in worship does also.