Psalms 149:3

3 Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.

Psalms 149:3 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 149:3

Let them praise his name in the dance
In a chorus of saints, joining together in their expressions of joy, by words and gestures; an ancient practice that went along with singing praises, ( Exodus 15:20 ) ; or rather, "with the pipe" ^F11, as some render it; a musical instrument used in former times in the worship of God, in this part of it, praising his name, with those that follow;

let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp;
the former of these was a vessel of brass, a drum or tabret, on which they beat, perhaps like one of our kettle drums; the other was a stringed instrument of music much used, and in playing on which David was very skilful: the music of these was typical of the spiritual melody made in the heart to the Lord in singing his praises, to which there are allusions in Gospel times; though the instruments themselves are now laid aside, being only suited to the church in her infant state, when under tutors and governors; see ( Psalms 68:25 ) ( Revelation 5:9 ) ( 14:2 ) ( 15:2 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F11 (lwxmb) "cum tibia", Tigurine version, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Amama.

Psalms 149:3 In-Context

1 Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.

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.

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.