King James Version
What Does Psalms 149:3 Mean?
“Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. in: or, with the pipe”
Context
1
Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Praise: Heb. Halleluiah
2
Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
3
Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. in: or, with the pipe
4
For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.
5
Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **In the dance.**—Rather, as margin, *with the pipe. *The use of the word *machôl *in what was evidently a list of all the orchestral instruments used in the Temple in the next psalm, would alone be almost decisive of the meaning. But one possible derivation is certainly in favour of this rendering, as also the translation in the Syriac version by the name of a flute still found in Syria. Its connection, too, with the *timbrel *or *drum *(comp. our pipe and tabor), just as a cognate, *chalîl, *is connected in 1Samuel 10:5; Isaiah 5:12, points the same way. (See *Bible Educator, *i. p. 70, and Note to Song of Solomon 6:13.)
**Timbrel.—**See Exodus 15:20; *Bible Educator, *i. 314.
**Harp.—**See Psalm 33:2.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 149:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 149:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge