Psalms 148:4 (KJV)

What does Psalms 148:4 mean?

Psalms 148:4 calls on the “heavens of heavens” and the “waters that be above the heavens” to join in praising God. The verse uses poetic language to invite even the highest and most mysterious parts of creation to take part in worship.

The psalmist is speaking to all of creation, not just people, urging everything in the universe—especially the vast skies and the waters above them—to give praise to God. In the context of Psalm 148, this verse is part of a larger call for all things, from the heavens to the earth, to recognize and honor their Creator.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 148:4

• The word for “praise” is הָלַל (halal), which means to boast about or shine a light on someone’s greatness. Here, it is a command directed at the highest parts of creation, showing that nothing is too distant or grand to be called to praise.
• The word for “heavens” is שָׁמַיִם (shamayim), used twice in the phrase “heavens of heavens.” This is a Hebrew way of expressing the highest or most expansive heavens, suggesting layers or realms beyond what people can see.
• The word for “waters” is מַיִם (mayim), referring to the waters “above the heavens.” This echoes ancient ideas of waters held above the sky, as described in Genesis, and includes even these mysterious waters in the call to praise.

Why Psalms 148:4 matters

• This verse shows that the call to praise God is not limited to people or earthly things, but extends to every part of creation, even those beyond human reach or understanding.
• The mention of “waters above the heavens” connects back to the creation story in Genesis, reminding readers of the order and wonder of the world God made.
• By including the “heavens of heavens,” the psalmist emphasizes the greatness of God, who is worthy of praise from the highest and most awe-inspiring places in existence.