Psalm 135

Psalm 135 is a song of praise. It was written to honor the Lord and remember His mighty works. It calls on the people of Israel, especially the priests and Levites, to praise God in the temple. The psalm reminds us that God is good and that His name will last forever.

This psalm talks about how God chose Israel to be His own people. It tells the story of how He rescued them from Egypt and gave them the land of other nations. These events show His power and care. The people are called to remember what God has done.

The psalm also warns about false gods. It says that idols made by humans cannot see, hear, or speak. Those who trust in these idols will become like them—empty and lifeless. The psalm reminds us to trust the Lord instead, because He is real and acts with strength.

Psalm 135 is full of praise and trust. It tells us to give thanks to God for all He has done. It shows the difference between the Lord and other so-called gods. It calls everyone who serves the Lord to praise Him with joy.

• Prayer Based on this Psalm
• Printable Copy of Prayer
• More Psalms

This psalm comes near the end of the Book of Psalms. It is part of the fifth and final section, which includes Psalms 107 through 150. These last psalms often focus on praise and worship. They were likely used during temple gatherings and feasts.

We do not know who wrote this psalm. Some think it may have been a temple singer or priest. It was likely written after the people returned from exile in Babylon. The words reflect joy and trust in God after a hard time in their history.

The psalm uses lines from other parts of Scripture. It includes ideas from Exodus, Deuteronomy, and earlier psalms. This shows that the writer knew the history of Israel well. It was written to remind the people of all that God had done for them.

This psalm was probably sung in the temple. It calls on priests, Levites, and all who serve the Lord to praise Him. It would have helped the people remember their story and worship together with one voice.

One clear theme in this psalm is praise. The people are called to bless the Lord for His goodness. In the Catholic Church, we praise God in the Mass, in our prayers, and in our songs. We also use incense as a sign of prayer rising to heaven. This psalm reminds us to do all of this with joy and trust.

Another theme is God’s power. The psalm tells how God saved His people from Egypt and gave them a land of their own. Catholics believe that God is always working in history. He guided Israel, and He still guides the Church today.

The psalm also warns against false gods. It says idols are made by human hands and cannot help anyone. Catholics believe that only God can save us. We are called to keep our trust in Him and not in things that pass away.

The last theme is God’s faithfulness. He chose Israel and stayed with them. Catholics believe this same God stays close to us too. He sent Jesus to bring us into His family, and He will never leave us.

This psalm may be old, but it still speaks to us today. It reminds us to praise God no matter what is going on. Life can be hard, but we are not alone. God is still good. He is still with His people.

Many people today trust in money, fame, or power. These things can fade or let us down. The psalm reminds us that idols are empty. They cannot help us. Only God is strong enough to carry us through.

The psalm also calls us to remember. Just like Israel looked back on God’s help in the past, we can look at what God has done in our lives. He has guided the Church, helped our families, and answered prayers.

We can use this psalm as a prayer. We can read it at Mass, during Holy Hour, or in quiet time at home. It helps us lift our hearts to God and thank Him for being so faithful.

A Prayer of Trust and Praise

Lord, I praise You for who You are.
You made the world and hold it together.
You care about my life, even when I feel small.
Thank You for being strong when I am weak.

You brought Your people through hard times.
You showed them the way when they were lost.
Help me remember Your past care when I feel afraid.
Guide me when I do not know what to do.

So many things ask for my attention.
School, friends, phones, and voices all around.
But they cannot give me peace like You do.
Help me keep my eyes on You.

Some people trust in money or fame.
But those things come and go.
You never leave. You never change.
I want to follow You, not fake things.

Lord, help me praise You with my life.
Not just with my words, but with what I do.
Let others see Your light in me.
Thank You for always being near.

This psalm is only used once in the Roman Catholic lectionary. It appears during a weekday Mass, not on a Sunday or major feast. That means most Catholics may not hear it read often at church.

Even though it is used just one time, it still carries meaning. It fits with readings that speak about God’s power and His care for His people. The psalm helps us praise God for the great things He has done.

When we do hear this psalm at Mass, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness. We also remember that He is greater than anything we could make or follow. He is the true God who always keeps His promises.

It may be a short moment in the lectionary, but the message stays with us. We are called to praise the Lord and trust Him, just like the people of Israel did long ago.

At Weekday Masses

• Saturday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Psalm 135:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6: Praise the Lord

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Who wrote Psalm 135?

We do not know for sure. The writer is not named. It may have been a temple singer or priest.

What is the main message of Psalm 135?

The main message is to praise God. It reminds us that God is good, powerful, and faithful.

Why does it talk about idols?

It warns us not to trust in false gods or things made by people. Idols cannot speak or help us. Only God is real and strong.

How does this psalm fit with Catholic teaching?

It matches what the Church teaches about God’s power, His care for His people, and the call to praise Him.

Is this psalm used at Mass?

Yes, but only once in the Church’s lectionary. It is read on a weekday, not on a Sunday.

Can I use this psalm in my own prayer?

Yes. You can read it during prayer time. It’s a good way to thank God and remember His help.

Does this psalm point to Jesus?

It shows God’s saving power, which leads to Jesus. Catholics believe Jesus is the fullest way God saves His people.

What part of the Bible is it in?

It is in the Book of Psalms, near the end. It is part of the last section, which includes many songs of praise.

Psalm 135 is a call to praise God. It reminds us that He is good and His name lasts forever. The psalm invites all who serve the Lord to bless Him, especially those in the temple. It starts with joy and thanks.

The psalm remembers the story of Israel. God chose His people and brought them out of Egypt. He gave them the land of other nations. These events showed His power and care. The people are told to never forget what He has done.

It also warns about idols. These are things made by people that cannot speak, see, or hear. They have no power. Those who follow them are on the wrong path. Only God is strong and real.

Catholics see this psalm as a reminder to trust in God, not in passing things. It fits with the Church’s teaching that God is faithful and always with us. We are called to praise Him, remember His works, and stay close to Him each day.

Take a few minutes to read Psalm 135. Think about how it speaks to your own life. Have you seen God’s care in hard times? Have you placed trust in things that didn’t last? This psalm helps us refocus.

After you read it, come back and share your thoughts. Did any line stand out to you? Do you see a connection to your own story? Let’s talk in the comments. Your words may help someone else too.