Psalms 148:9

KJV

Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars:

KJV (with Strong's)

Mountains {H2022}, and all hills {H1389}; fruitful {H6529} trees {H6086}, and all cedars {H730}:

Complete Jewish Bible

mountains and every hill, fruit trees and all cedars,

Berean Standard Bible

mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,

American Standard Version

Mountains and all hills; Fruitful trees and all cedars;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 148:9 forms a vital part of a grand cosmic symphony of praise, specifically calling upon the enduring and life-giving elements of the earth's natural landscape to glorify the Lord. This verse, "Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars:", encapsulates the majestic and diverse terrestrial components, emphasizing that even the seemingly inanimate aspects of creation are active participants in declaring the Creator's awesome power, wisdom, and sustaining presence. It serves as a profound reminder that all things, from the loftiest peaks to the most ancient trees, bear witness to the divine hand that fashioned them.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 148 is a magnificent doxology, a universal hymn of praise that systematically calls upon all of creation to laud the Lord. The psalm opens with an invocation to the celestial realm—the heavens, angels, sun, moon, and stars—to praise God (vv. 1-6). It then shifts its focus to the terrestrial sphere, beginning with the mighty sea creatures and the deeps (v. 7), moving through meteorological phenomena like fire, hail, snow, vapor, and stormy wind (v. 8). Verse 9, the subject of this commentary, continues this terrestrial summons by specifically naming prominent geological features and vegetation: "Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars." This progression from the heavens to the earth's most fundamental and enduring elements demonstrates the comprehensive scope of God's sovereignty and the universal nature of His praise. The subsequent verses (v. 10) list animals, and the psalm culminates with a call to all humanity, from kings to commoners, young and old, to join this chorus of worship (vv. 11-14), ultimately highlighting Israel's unique relationship with God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Israelite worldview was deeply intertwined with the natural environment, which was seen not merely as a backdrop but as a dynamic expression of God's power and character. Mountains, such as Mount Sinai or Mount Zion, held immense theological significance as places of divine encounter, revelation, and stability. Hills were common features of the Palestinian landscape, often associated with cultic sites or strategic strongholds. Trees, especially "fruitful trees," were vital for sustenance and represented God's provision and blessing in an agrarian society. The "cedars," particularly the famed [cedars of Lebanon](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's Request for Cedars"), were renowned throughout the ancient Near East for their immense size, longevity, strength, and aromatic wood, making them symbols of majesty, endurance, and divine favor. These natural elements were not worshipped themselves but were understood as tangible manifestations of the one true God's creative genius and sustaining power, prompting a natural response of awe and worship from those who observed them.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 148 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Universal Praise**, asserting that God's glory is so pervasive that even the non-human creation instinctively declares His majesty. This resonates deeply with passages like [Psalm 19:1](/psalms/19-1 "Psalm 19:1 - The Heavens Declare God's Glory"), where "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork," indicating a silent, yet undeniable, testimony from the created order. Secondly, it highlights **God's Sovereignty and Design**, showcasing His meticulous artistry and omnipotent power in shaping the diverse and complex world. The enduring nature of mountains and the life-giving capacity of fruitful trees point to a Creator who is both powerful and provident. Lastly, the verse reinforces the theme of **Nature as a Witness to God's Attributes**. It suggests that the very existence and characteristics of creation reveal God's "invisible attributes, even his eternal power and Godhead," as articulated in [Romans 1:20](/romans/1-20 "Romans 1:20 - God's Attributes Seen in Creation"), leaving humanity without excuse regarding His existence and glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mountains (Hebrew, _har'_):** From H2022, a mountain or range of hills, sometimes used figuratively. In this context, "mountains" signify the highest, most imposing, and enduring features of the earth's landscape. They represent stability, grandeur, and often, proximity to the divine in biblical imagery. Their sheer scale and permanence are presented as silent witnesses to God's eternal power.
* **Fruitful (Hebrew, _pᵉrîy'_):** From H6529, meaning fruit (literally or figuratively), bough, reward. When combined with "trees," it emphasizes the life-giving, productive aspect of creation. This highlights God's provision and the inherent purpose of creation to yield life and sustenance, reflecting His generosity and sustaining power.
* **Cedars (Hebrew, _ʼerez'_):** From H730, a cedar tree, particularly known for the tenacity of its roots. The cedar, especially the cedar of Lebanon, was renowned for its immense size, longevity, strength, and valuable timber. In the biblical imagination, cedars symbolize majesty, strength, resilience, and often, divine favor or righteousness (e.g., [Psalm 92:12](/psalms/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish Like Cedars")). Their inclusion here emphasizes the most magnificent and enduring of trees joining the chorus of praise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Mountains, and all hills;":** This initial phrase sets the stage by invoking the grand, unmoving, and foundational elements of the earth's topography. "Mountains" (harim) and "hills" (g'va'ot) represent the entire spectrum of elevated landforms, from the towering peaks to the gentler slopes. Their very existence, their steadfastness through millennia, and their awe-inspiring presence are presented as an inherent declaration of God's power and eternal nature. They stand as silent, ancient witnesses to the Creator's glory, embodying stability and majesty.
* **"fruitful trees, and all cedars:":** This second clause shifts focus to the arboreal world, highlighting both the utilitarian and the majestic aspects of vegetation. "Fruitful trees" (etz p'ri) emphasize God's provision and the life-sustaining bounty of creation, reminding us of the Creator's goodness and the purposefulness of His design. "All cedars" (arazim) specifically refers to the most magnificent and enduring of trees, like the cedars of Lebanon, known for their immense size, longevity, and strength. Their inclusion signifies the pinnacle of natural beauty and resilience, adding a note of regal splendor to the universal praise. Together, these elements represent the vibrant, growing, and enduring aspects of the terrestrial world, all called to acknowledge their Maker.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 148:9 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of universal praise. **Merism** is evident in the pairing of "mountains, and all hills" and "fruitful trees, and all cedars." By naming the highest and lowest (or most common) examples within a category, the psalmist implies the entirety of that category is included. This technique ensures a comprehensive scope, indicating that *all* elevated landforms and *all* types of trees are summoned to praise. **Personification** is central to the psalm's overall theme, as inanimate objects like mountains, hills, and trees are depicted as actively participating in worship. They are given agency to "praise the Lord," suggesting a natural, inherent response to their Creator's glory. This device elevates the natural world beyond mere scenery, imbuing it with a spiritual awareness that silently testifies to God. Furthermore, **Imagery** is richly used, painting vivid pictures of towering mountains, rolling hills, lush fruit-bearing trees, and majestic cedars. These images evoke a sense of grandeur, stability, provision, and beauty, all pointing to the magnificent attributes of the divine Artist. The selection of these specific elements also functions as **Symbolism**, where mountains represent permanence and power, fruitful trees symbolize life and sustenance, and cedars embody majesty and endurance, each contributing to a multifaceted portrayal of God's glory reflected in His creation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 148:9 profoundly articulates the theological truth that creation itself is a testament to God's glory and power, serving as a constant, silent sermon on His attributes. This verse, by summoning mountains, hills, and trees to praise, underscores the inherent purpose of all created things to reflect their Maker. It reminds us that God's presence is not confined to sacred spaces or human institutions but is woven into the very fabric of the universe. This universal call to worship implies that humanity's praise is not an isolated act but a conscious joining of a cosmic chorus, a recognition of our place within God's grand design. The enduring nature of mountains and the life-giving capacity of trees speak to God's faithfulness and sustaining power, inviting a deeper sense of awe and reverence for the Creator who not only brought all things into being but continues to uphold them.

* [Psalm 19:1](/psalms/19-1 "Psalm 19:1 - The Heavens Declare God's Glory")
* [Romans 1:20](/romans/1-20 "Romans 1:20 - God's Invisible Attributes Seen in Creation")
* [Isaiah 55:12](/isaiah/55-12 "Isaiah 55:12 - The Trees of the Field Shall Clap Their Hands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 148:9 serves as a profound invitation for us to recalibrate our perspective on the world around us and our place within it. If the towering mountains, the gentle hills, the life-giving fruitful trees, and the majestic cedars are all, in their very existence, offering a ceaseless hymn of praise to their Creator, how much more should we, as beings endowed with consciousness, reason, and the capacity for worship, join this magnificent chorus? This verse challenges us to move beyond a utilitarian view of nature and to see it as a vibrant, living testimony to God's power, wisdom, and goodness. It encourages us to cultivate a posture of awe and gratitude, recognizing that every sunrise, every blossoming tree, and every enduring landscape is a fresh declaration of divine glory. Our response should be one of humble adoration, inspired by creation's silent yet eloquent praise, leading us to intentional worship, responsible stewardship of the earth, and a deeper appreciation for the God who sustains all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does observing the natural world around you (mountains, trees, etc.) stir your heart to worship God?**
* **In what ways can we, as humans, consciously join the "praise" of creation described in this psalm?**
* **What does the enduring nature of mountains and cedars teach us about God's character and faithfulness?**
* **How might a deeper appreciation for creation's praise impact our approach to environmental stewardship?**

### FAQ
**Why do inanimate objects like mountains and trees "praise" God?**

Answer: In the biblical worldview, "praise" from inanimate objects is not understood as verbal articulation but as a silent, inherent testimony to their Creator's glory. Their very existence, their intricate design, their enduring nature, and their provision of life and beauty all point to the magnificent power and wisdom of God. As [Psalm 19:1](/psalms/19-1 "Psalm 19:1 - The Heavens Declare God's Glory") states, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." The mountains stand tall, the trees bear fruit, and the cedars endure, all fulfilling the purpose for which they were created, thereby bringing honor and glory to their Maker. Their "praise" is a continuous, undeniable demonstration of God's attributes, making His presence known throughout the earth.

**What is the significance of "fruitful trees" and "cedars" specifically being mentioned?**

Answer: The mention of "fruitful trees" highlights God's role as Provider and Sustainer. These trees yield sustenance and life, symbolizing God's generosity and the blessing He bestows through creation. "Cedars," particularly the [cedars of Lebanon](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's Use of Cedars for the Temple"), were renowned for their immense size, strength, longevity, and durability. They symbolize majesty, endurance, and often, righteousness or divine favor in scripture (e.g., [Psalm 92:12](/psalms/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish Like Cedars")). By including these specific types of trees, the psalmist emphasizes both the practical, life-giving aspects of nature and its most magnificent, enduring, and awe-inspiring elements, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the terrestrial world's praise.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Psalms 148:9 calls creation to praise God the Creator, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the New Testament revelation that Jesus Christ is not only the agent through whom all things were created but also the ultimate recipient and embodiment of all creation's praise. [Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ, Creator of All Things") declares that "by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible... all things were created by him, and for him." Thus, the mountains, hills, fruitful trees, and cedars of Psalm 148:9 find their origin and purpose in Christ. He is the sustaining power "upholding all things by the word of his power" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholding All Things")). Furthermore, the praise offered by creation foreshadows the ultimate worship directed towards the Lamb of God, who is worthy to receive "power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing" from "every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea" ([Revelation 5:12-13](/revelation/5-12-13 "Revelation 5:12-13 - Worthy is the Lamb")). In Christ, the silent testimony of creation becomes a vibrant, redemptive narrative, culminating in the new heavens and new earth where all things are reconciled to God through Him ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 44:23

Sing, O ye heavens; for the LORD hath done [it]: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified himself in Israel.

Isaiah 49:13

¶ Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the LORD hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted.

Isaiah 55:12

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands.

Isaiah 55:13

Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign [that] shall not be cut off.

Isaiah 42:11

Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice], the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

Ezekiel 36:1

¶ Also, thou son of man, prophesy unto the mountains of Israel, and say, Ye mountains of Israel, hear the word of the LORD:

Ezekiel 36:15

Neither will I cause [men] to hear in thee the shame of the heathen any more, neither shalt thou bear the reproach of the people any more, neither shalt thou cause thy nations to fall any more, saith the Lord GOD.