What does Psalms 149 mean?
Chapter Commentary:
This motivating song rouses the people to praise God and commit themselves to serving Him. The psalm begins and ends with the term usually translated as "hallelujah," which literally means "praise the Lord!"

The psalmist's first focus is on praise and worship. Israel is the new name given to the nation's founder, Jacob (Genesis 32:28). Zion is another name for Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1), both used as a "metonym"—a placeholder or stand-in—for the entire nation of Israel. These chosen people are called on to offer singing, dancing, and music to God. Since God is pleased with His people, those who submit to Him in faith should also experience joy. This gratitude should be apparent at all times—even when at rest (Psalm 149:1–5)!

These same people—ancient Israel—are called to praise God while fighting to com-plete His will on earth. This was Israel's mission when they came into Canaan (Deuteronomy 7:1–5; 9:4–5). At the time this psalm was written, Israel had failed to accomplish this; it was unlikely they ever would. A call for swords here is not entirely symbolic, but it's likely more about anticipating the Lord's eventual victory (Psalm 45:3–6) than planning an immediate battle (Psalm 149:6–9).
Verse Context:
Psalm 149:1–5 summons Israel to praise the Lord, their Creator and King. The praise should be joyful and include dancing and singing—even when resting in bed. The Lord takes special pleasure in His chosen people, especially those who remain humble and accept His salvation.
Psalm 149:6–9 calls on godly Israelites to continue their praise of God while executing His commanded judgment on ungodly nations. These actions were commanded by God after the exodus; they were instructions to Israel alone, regarding those pagan nations alone. As Israel follows these commands, they fulfill God's prophecies and bring honor to them-selves.
Chapter Summary:
The psalmist calls on Israel to praise the Lord God who is their King. He celebrates the Lord's special concern for Israel and expects the people to respond with joy. The song also calls on Israel—the Old Testament nation—to live out God's commands to overcome the depraved nations of Canaan as they were instructed after the exodus (Deuteronomy 7:2; 9:5). This will fulfill prophecy and be a source of honor for those who obey God.
Chapter Context:
The English word "hallelujah" comes from the Hebrew expression halelu-yāh. This unique phrase only occurs biblically in the book of Psalms; many instances are in the last five entries (Psalms 146—150). Each of these last songs begins and ends with this phrase which literally means "praise the Lord!" The later verses call on the Old Testament people of Israel to fulfill their intended role as instruments of the Lord's vengeance on evil nations (Deuteronomy 7:2; 9:5; Ezekiel 25:14).
Book Summary:
The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.
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