What does Psalms 150:1 Mean?

Verse Meaning

The psalmist called on his audience to praise God in His heavenly sanctuary. This Psalm , like so many of the Hallel psalms (113-118 , 120-136 , 146-150), opens and closes with a call to worship. The term "sanctuary" (lit. holy place) is evidently in apposition to "mighty expanse," and both terms are parallel synonyms for "heaven," i.e, God"s home-the universe. [source][source]

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Context Summary

Israel was formed into a nation and delivered from Babylon, that her singers should lead the praises of mankind, and her teachers provide the metaphors and phrases for the world's religious nurture. "This people have I made for myself," said the Most High, "that they might show forth my praise." Is it not also our Christian duty to be joyful in our King? Our religious life has not enough ecstasy and gladness in it to attract the world, which is sad enough beneath its outward gaiety.

Psalms 150:1-6

A worthy close to the Psalter. Ten times the summons to praise rings out, and ten is the number of perfection. Think of the tears and groans, the questionings and perplexities, the feeble faith and disappointed aspiration, that have preceded! Now it all finishes thus! So life will finish! Our Misereres will be forgotten in the outbursting Jubilates . The first three books of the Psalter end with Amen and Amen, the firm expression of faith. The fourth book with Amen, Hallelujah, as though faith were beginning to be lost in glad realization. But here, at the end of all, there is one abounding and unhesitating Hallelujah!

For Review Questions, see the e-Sword Book Comments. [source]

Chapter Summary: Psalms 150

¹  An exhortation to praise God
³  With all kinds of instruments