Psalms 148:3

Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הַ֝לְל֗וּהוּ

H1984

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

שֶׁ֣מֶשׁ

H8121

ye him sun

the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement

וְיָרֵ֑חַ

H3394

and moon

the moon

הַ֝לְל֗וּהוּ

H1984

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

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

כּ֥וֹכְבֵי

H3556

him all ye stars

a star (as round or as shining); figuratively, a prince

אֽוֹר׃

H216

of light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?