Psalms 148:14 (KJV)

What does Psalms 148:14 mean?

Psalms 148:14 says that God lifts up and honors His people, making them strong and giving them reason to be praised, especially those who are close to Him—the people of Israel. The verse ends with a call for everyone to praise the LORD.

The psalmist is speaking to all creation, calling everything and everyone to praise God. In this verse, the focus narrows to God’s special relationship with Israel, describing them as a people “near” to Him. The “horn” is a symbol of strength and dignity, showing that God gives His people both honor and protection.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 148:14

• "exalteth" (רוּם, rûm): This word means to lift up or raise high. Here, it shows God actively giving His people a place of honor.
• "horn" (קֶרֶן, qeren): In ancient times, a horn represented strength, power, or victory. Saying God exalts the horn of His people means He gives them strength and status.
• "saints" (חָסִיד, ḥāsîd): This word refers to those who are faithful or devoted to God. It highlights the close, covenant relationship between God and His people.
• "near" (קָרוֹב, qārōv): This word means being close or near in relationship, not just in distance. It emphasizes the special closeness between God and Israel.

Why Psalms 148:14 matters

• This verse clears up that the “horn” is not a literal object but a symbol of strength and honor, showing how God supports and lifts up His people.
• The verse highlights that Israel’s closeness to God is a key reason for their praise, tying their identity and blessing directly to their relationship with Him.
• It connects the praise of God’s people to the larger theme of the psalm, which is a universal call for all creation to praise the LORD, showing that Israel’s story is part of a bigger picture.