Psalms 113

over them, in giving them a law, which he tied them by a covenant perpetually to observe; (Exod. xix. 4, 5. xxiv. 8.) appearing in such majesty to them, (Exod. xx. 18. xxiv. 10, 11.) as might possess them with an awful regard to him; and make them for over dread, by any profaneness, to offend him, who infinitely excels all other beings. This Psalm, with the five next which follow, the Hebrews call by the name of Hallel, or Hymn: which they recited at their table (as in the new moons and other feasts, so) in the paschal night, after they had eaten the lamb; concluding it with Hallelujah: which is the title of this Psalm (as of the two foregoing), to excite all God’s people, especially those that constantly attended in the tabernacle, to the praises of God’s good providence; which extends itself as far as this earth where we live: several instances of which the Psalmist here mentions.

Psalms 113:1

PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. O ye ministers of the Lord, and whosoever you are that love his service, praise his eternal majesty: be not remiss in this heavenly

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his command ments: his praise endureth for ever.* And, indeed, it is the first and principal point of wisdom to fear the Lord, and carefully observe his commandments; the practico of which gives men a better understanding of what is good for them, than any politic maxims can infuse into them. Therefore let the Lord be for over praised, who hath given us these good and wholesome laws: and thereby shewn us the way to eternal honour and praise.