New American Standard Bible

Note: This psalm is a part of the last Hallel or Praise psalms (Psalms 146-150) that were used as a part of daily prayers in the synagogue worship.

149:1 [this psalm opens and closes on a note of praise] Praise the Lord [the object of praise]! Sing to the Lord a new song [one pertaining to the present occasions for giving praise to God or a new situation that warrants giving praise to God; cf. Ps. 33:3; 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9], And His praise in the congregation of the godly ones [from the Hebrew term “hesed” meaning faithful, loving, and dependable].

149:2 Let Israel be glad in his Maker [the Lord is here referred to as Maker or the one who redeemed Israel and formed the covenant community]; Let the sons of Zion rejoice in their King [the Lord is here referred to as King or leader of the covenant community].

149:3 Let them praise His name with dancing [a common way to celebrate the Lord’s victory and blessing]; Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre.

149:4 For the Lord takes pleasure in His people [those who fear Him (cf. Ps. 147:11)]; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation [or victory].

149:5 Let the godly ones exult in glory; Let them sing for joy on their beds [previously soaked with tears; cf. Ps. 4:4; 6:6; 63:6; Hos. 7:14; the victory of verse 4 gives way to the relaxation and rejoicing of verse 5].

149:6 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth [praises on the mouth must originate in the heart], And a two-edged sword in their hand,

149:7 To execute vengeance on the nations And punishment on the peoples,

149:8 To bind their kings with chains And their nobles with fetters of iron,

149:9 To execute on them the judgment written; This is an honor for all His godly ones. Praise the Lord!