Psalms 148:13

Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory is above the earth and heaven.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יְהַלְל֤וּ׀

H1984

Let them praise

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

שְׁמ֣וֹ

H8034

for his name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

יְהוָ֗ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

נִשְׂגָּ֣ב

H7682

alone is excellent

to be (causatively, make) lofty, especially inaccessible; by implication, safe, strong; used literally and figuratively

שְׁמ֣וֹ

H8034

for his name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

לְבַדּ֑וֹ

H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

ה֝וֹד֗וֹ

H1935

his glory

grandeur (i.e., an imposing form and appearance)

#10

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#11

אֶ֥רֶץ

H776

is above the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#12

וְשָׁמָֽיִם׃

H8064

and heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of glory reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of glory differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?