Psalms150
Where and Why to Praise God
The Instruments of Praise
A Universal Doxology
Study Notes for Psalms 150
Verse 1
The call to praise is simultaneously localized ('sanctuary,' referring to the earthly temple) and cosmic ('firmament of his power,' referring to the heavens), emphasizing the universality of God’s dominion.
Verse 2
The motivation for praise is twofold: it is grounded in God's historical intervention ('mighty acts') and His inherent, transcendent glory ('excellent greatness').
Verse 4
The inclusion of both 'timbrel' (a tambourine) and 'dance' confirms that ancient Hebrew worship was often physically expressive and celebratory, integrating movement and percussion into joyous adoration.
Verse 6
This verse acts as the climactic and universal conclusion not only to Psalm 150 but to the entire five-book Psalter, commanding that every living creature ('every thing that hath breath') participate in the glorification of the LORD.