Psalm 150:6

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Hallelujah!

Study Bible

Let everything that has breath
This phrase emphasizes the universality of worship, calling all living creatures to praise God. In biblical context, "breath" signifies life, as seen in Genesis 2:7, where God breathes life into Adam. This call to worship extends beyond humanity to all of creation, reflecting the idea that all life is sustained by God and should, therefore, honor Him. The Hebrew word for "breath" (neshamah) is often associated with the spirit or life force, underscoring the intrinsic connection between life and the divine.

praise the LORD!
The act of praising the LORD is central to the Psalms and the life of believers. The term "LORD" here is the translation of the Hebrew name Yahweh, the covenant name of God, highlighting His personal relationship with His people. Praise in the biblical sense involves acknowledging God's attributes, works, and character. This call to praise is not just a suggestion but a command, reflecting the rightful response of creation to its Creator. The Psalms frequently depict praise as a communal and individual act, as seen in Psalm 148, where all elements of creation are called to worship.

Hallelujah!
This exclamation is a transliteration of the Hebrew phrase "Hallelu Yah," meaning "Praise the LORD." It serves as both a command and an expression of joy and reverence. "Hallelujah" is used throughout the Psalms and is a declaration of God's sovereignty and goodness. In the New Testament, the term appears in Revelation 19, where it is associated with the ultimate victory and reign of God. This word encapsulates the essence of worship and is a fitting conclusion to the Psalter, summarizing the purpose and destiny of all creation: to glorify God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 150, traditionally attributed to King David, who is known for his deep devotion and musical contributions to worship.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with His people.

3. Creation
The phrase "everything that has breath" encompasses all living creatures, highlighting the universality of the call to worship.

4. The Temple
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of the Psalms often relates to worship practices centered around the Temple in Jerusalem.

5. Hallelujah
A Hebrew word meaning "Praise the LORD," used as both an exhortation and a declaration of worship.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
Every living being is called to praise the LORD, emphasizing the inclusivity and universality of worship.

Breath as a Gift
Recognize that our very breath is a gift from God, and use it to glorify Him in all aspects of life.

Praise as a Lifestyle
Worship is not confined to a specific time or place but should be a continuous expression of gratitude and reverence.

The Power of Hallelujah
Understand the significance of "Hallelujah" as both a personal declaration and a communal call to worship.

Creation's Testimony
Reflect on how all of creation, by its existence, testifies to the greatness of God and joins in the chorus of praise.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the original Hebrew word for "breath" (neshamah) enhance our appreciation of this verse?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the practice of praising God into our daily routines?

3. How does the call to "let everything that has breath praise the LORD" challenge our understanding of who is invited to worship God?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage others to join in the universal call to praise the LORD?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Romans 12:1, expand our understanding of what it means to live a life of worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:7
This verse describes God breathing life into man, connecting the concept of breath with life and the divine act of creation.

Psalm 103:1-2
These verses emphasize personal praise and worship, encouraging believers to bless the LORD with all that is within them.

Revelation 5:13
This passage envisions all creation praising God, echoing the universal call to worship found in Psalm 150:6.

Isaiah 42:10-12
These verses call for a new song of praise from all corners of the earth, reinforcing the idea that all creation is to glorify God.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, which is a form of spiritual worship, aligning with the call to praise God with our whole being.