Psalm 133/Notes/Grammar.v. 1.185334

v. 1c – The function of גַּם is not immediately clear. None of the ancient versions (or modern versions consulted) contain a direct gloss of the lexeme, while van der Merwe's study of גַּם considers it "problematic" (2009, 329) and "impossible to explain in terms of [his] current model" (2009, 329, n. 44). Nevertheless, גַּם is often employed as a focus particle, preceding an individual sentence constituent, as here. The two common function of גַּּם as a focus particle are additive, "also," and scalar, "even." The latter seems most probable in the present case, and implies that brothers (probably referring to Israel and Judah as a whole; see story behind) dwelling in the land is a good thing in itself (even more so in light of the Babylonian exile)—not only dwelling in the land, but even together!