Psalms 148 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 148 Psa 148:1-14 . The scope of this Psalm is the same as that of the preceding. 1. heavens [and] heights-- are synonymous.
2. hosts-- (compare Psa 103:21 ).
4. heavens of heavens-- the very highest. waters-- clouds, resting above the visible heavens (compare Ge 1:7 ).
5. praise the name-- as representing His perfections. he commanded-- "He" is emphatic, ascribing creation to God alone.
6. 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 ( Jr 36:31 ), or perish ( Job 34:20 ; Psa 37:36 ).
7-10. 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.
11-12. Next all rational beings, from the highest in rank to little children. princes-- or, military leaders.
13. Let them-- all mentioned. excellent-- or, exalted ( Is 12:4 ). his glory-- majesty ( Psa 45:3 ). above the earth and heaven-- Their united splendors fail to match His.