Psalms 149:1-3

Psalms 149:1-3

[1] Praise  ye the LORD.  Sing  unto the LORD  a new  song,  and his praise  in the congregation  of saints.  [2] Let Israel  rejoice  in him that made  him: let the children  of Zion  be joyful  in their King.  [3] Let them praise  his name  in the dance:  let them sing praises  unto him with the timbrel  and harp. 

What does Psalms 149:1-3 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

The psalmist exhorted the Israelites to praise God enthusiastically and wholeheartedly. Their praise should be spontaneous and fresh, the connotations of a "new song" (cf. Psalm 33:3; Psalm 40:3; Psalm 96:1; Psalm 98:1; Psalm 144:9). They should also praise Him publicly, in company with the other godly (Heb. hasidim) in the nation, because He had done something new for them. He had restored them and given them hope of final eschatological victory (cf. Psalm 149:6-9; Revelation 14:3). In common with Psalm 148 (especially Psalm 149:14), this one also uses several synonyms to describe the Israelites. The nation should remember its Maker, who formed the family of Abraham into a nation at the Exodus. Dancing and musical instruments were fitting accompaniments for such joyful celebration.