Psalm 148:13

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His splendor is above the earth and the heavens.

Study Bible

Let them praise the name of the LORD
This phrase calls all creation to worship God, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging His sovereignty. The "name of the LORD" signifies His character and authority. In biblical times, a name represented the essence of a person. The call to praise is a recurring theme in the Psalms, reflecting the Jewish tradition of worship and the acknowledgment of God's covenant relationship with Israel. This phrase connects to the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, which emphasizes the oneness and uniqueness of God.

for His name alone is exalted
This highlights the exclusivity of God's majesty and power. In a polytheistic ancient Near Eastern context, where many gods were worshiped, this statement affirms monotheism and the supremacy of Yahweh. The idea of God's name being exalted is echoed in Philippians 2:9-11, where Jesus is given the name above every name, showing a continuity in the exaltation of God's name through Christ.

His splendor is above the earth and the heavens
This phrase speaks to God's transcendence and the glory of His creation. The heavens and the earth are often used in Scripture to denote the entirety of creation, as seen in Genesis 1:1. God's splendor surpasses all that is visible, indicating His infinite nature. This is reminiscent of Isaiah 55:9, where God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours, and it points to the majesty of God that is fully revealed in Jesus Christ, as described in Colossians 1:16-17, where Christ is the agent of creation and sustainer of all things.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing the God of Israel, whose name is to be praised and exalted above all.

2. The Earth and the Heavens
These are the realms over which God's splendor is declared to be supreme, emphasizing His sovereignty and majesty over all creation.

Teaching Points

The Uniqueness of God's Name
God's name is not just a label but a representation of His character and authority. In a world with many competing ideologies and deities, Christians are called to recognize and proclaim the uniqueness of the LORD's name.

The Call to Universal Praise
This verse is a call for all creation to acknowledge God's supremacy. Believers are encouraged to join in this universal chorus, recognizing that worship is not limited to a specific time or place but is a continual act of acknowledging God's greatness.

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The mention of God's splendor being above the earth and heavens serves as a reminder of His ultimate authority and control over all things. This should bring comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that their lives are in the hands of a sovereign God.

Exalting God in Daily Life
Exalting God's name is not limited to verbal praise but is also demonstrated through our actions and decisions. Christians are encouraged to reflect God's character in their daily lives, thereby exalting His name through their conduct.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the meaning of God's name enhance your worship and relationship with Him?

2. In what ways can you join the universal call to praise God in your daily life?

3. How does recognizing God's sovereignty over the earth and heavens impact your perspective on current world events?

4. What are some practical ways you can exalt God's name in your community or workplace?

5. How do other scriptures that speak of God's exaltation and glory deepen your understanding of Psalm 148:13?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Philippians 2:9-11
This passage speaks of God exalting Jesus and giving Him the name above every name, which parallels the exaltation of God's name in Psalm 148:13.

Isaiah 42:8
God declares His name and glory, emphasizing that He will not share His glory with another, reinforcing the exclusivity of His exaltation.

Revelation 5:13
All creation praises God and the Lamb, echoing the call for universal praise found in Psalm 148.