Commentary on Psalms 148

hosts--(compare Psa 103:21).

heavens of heavens--the very highest.

waters--clouds, resting above the visible heavens (compare Gen 1:7).

praise the name--as representing His perfections.

he commanded--"He" is emphatic, ascribing creation to God alone.

The perpetuity of the frame of nature is, of course, subject to Him who formed it.

a decree . . . pass--His ordinances respecting them shall not change (Jer 36:31), or perish (Job 34:20; Psa 37:36).

The call on the earth, as opposed to heaven, includes seas or depths, whose inhabitants the dragon, as one of the largest (on leviathan, see on Psa 104:26), is selected to represent. The most destructive and ungovernable agents of inanimate nature are introduced.

fulfilling his word--or, law, may be understood of each. Next the most distinguished productions of the vegetable world.

fruitful trees--or, "trees of fruit," as opposed to forest trees. Wild and domestic, large and small animals are comprehended.

Next all rational beings, from the highest in rank to little children.

princes--or, military leaders.

Let them--all mentioned.

excellent--or, exalted (Isa 12:4).

his glory--majesty (Psa 45:3).

above the earth and heaven--Their united splendors fail to match His.

exalteth the horn--established power (Psa 75:5-6).

praise of--or literally, "for"

his saints--that is, occasions for them to praise Him. They are further described as "His people," and "near unto Him," sustaining by covenanted care a peculiarly intimate relation.

Next: Psalms Chapter 149