Context:
(EBC) Psalms 146–150 constitute the last Hallel (“praise”) collection. These five Hallelujah psalms have the characteristic genre of the hymn of descriptive praise. These psalms were used at some point as a part of the daily prayers in the synagogue worship
(EBC) It functions as a final doxology, bringing the Psalter to a solemn and joyful conclusion. Brueggemann observes that while Psalm 1 is an intentional introduction to the Psalter, Psalm 150 is an appropriate conclusion, as it states the outcome of such a life under torah. Torah-keeping does arrive at obedience, yet obedience is not the goal of torah-keeping. Finally, such a life arrives at unencumbered praise
Structure:
(EBC) the object of praise (vv. 1–2), the manner of praise (vv. 3–5)
Ob and In:
1. Different preposition following the word, "praise" (BDB-be boastful)
(בְּ ) in v.1 (x2), v.2a(בְּ on account of)
(כְּ) v 2b
(BDB) (all c. בְּ instr.) v 3(x2), 4(x2), 5(x2)
2. Repeated with crescendo:
Lyre/harp v.3-stringed instruments v.4 (plural)
Loud cymbals v.5a-clanging (BDB-blast for march) cymbals v.5b (EBC-The difference between “cymbals” and “resounding cymbals” (150:5) is not clear. Keel suggests that the two types may have made different levels of sound: soft and loud playing (p. 340).
3. Instruments that used for both military and worship: horn and cymbals v.3,5
Summary:
v.1-2 The author called for the congregation to praise God not only in their sanctuary, but also he called the angels to praise God in the sky where His strength was shown. (EBC) The “mighty heavens” (lit., “firmament of his might”) have been made by him and assure the order and well-being of man on earth (cf. Gen 1:6–7). From the standpoint of the congregation the mighty acts and the surpassing greatness also included what God has done in their nation's history and their personal experience.
v.3-5 Their experiences might be well expressed by different kind of instruments. The blast of the horn and the clanging cymbals might recalled the battles they have fought, and how God led them in those time. Or their worship which was the beginning of their nation.
The lyre and harp might be time of sadness or frustration like some of the lament or crying out for rescue psalm. When all the stringed instruments sounded together, they expressed the greater intensity of the crying.
In the middle, is the tambourine and dancing which might express the joyous moments, e.g. after they passed over the red sea, and after David killed Goliath.
v.6 Therefore, the author made a resolution (or a summary) after all these recalling: everything and everyone (include the angels, humans, and all creatures), we need to praise the LORD.
Reflection: If I look back in my life, what kind of instrument I will use to describe my different experiences? Will I still resolve to praise the LORD like the author did?
"Praise God" is an interjection, it is from the bottom of the heart from the author. At the same time, he also invite others to do that. Both as an encouragement and an command? If it is a command, then if everyone looks back in life we have no other choice, but praise God. The author is sure about this.
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