Psalm 150:6

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Hallelujah!

Study Bible

Let everything that has breath
This phrase calls upon all living creatures to participate in the act of worship. The Hebrew word for "breath" is "neshamah," which signifies the breath of life given by God to all living beings. This breath is a divine gift, a reminder of the Creator's power and presence in every aspect of life. In Genesis 2:7, God breathes life into Adam, symbolizing the intimate connection between the Creator and His creation. The call for everything with breath to praise God underscores the universality of worship, transcending human boundaries and inviting all of creation to join in glorifying the Creator.

praise the LORD
The Hebrew word for "praise" is "halal," which means to boast, celebrate, or glorify. This is the root of "Hallelujah," a term that combines "halal" with "Yah," a shortened form of Yahweh, the covenant name of God. The act of praising the LORD is not just a verbal acknowledgment but a heartfelt expression of adoration and reverence. It is a call to recognize God's sovereignty, goodness, and faithfulness. Throughout the Psalms, praise is depicted as a natural response to God's mighty works and His steadfast love. This phrase serves as a reminder that worship is both a privilege and a duty for all who acknowledge the LORD's greatness.

Hallelujah!
This exclamation is a powerful and joyful declaration of praise to God. "Hallelujah" is a transliteration of the Hebrew phrase "halelu Yah," meaning "praise Yahweh." It is an invitation to join in the chorus of worship that echoes throughout the heavens and the earth. In the context of Psalm 150, "Hallelujah" serves as both a conclusion and a climax, encapsulating the essence of the entire psalm, which is a call to worship God with every instrument, in every place, and by every creature. This word has transcended languages and cultures, becoming a universal expression of praise and a testament to the enduring power of worship.

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.