The psalm itself is a short, six-verse exhortation to praise God, specifically detailing the locations and methods of praise. It encourages praise in the sanctuary and in heaven, celebrating God's mighty works and greatness. The psalm suggests using musical instruments like the ram's horn, lyre, harp, tambourine, strings, flutes, and cymbals, and also includes dancing as a form of worship. The final verse commands that everything that breathes should praise the Lord.

Psalm 149 encourages the faithful to praise the Lord with singing, dancing, and musical instruments. It emphasizes that God rejoices in his people and grants them victory. The passage also describes the faithful having praises in their mouths and a sword in their hands to execute judgment and punishment upon nations and their rulers, portraying this as a glorious privilege.

Psalm 148 presents a powerful call for universal praise directed towards God. The text begins by summoning celestial entities like angels, the sun, moon, and stars to offer praise, followed by a call to the natural world on Earth, including oceans, weather phenomena, mountains, trees, and animals. Finally, the psalm extends this command to all of humanity, encompassing people of all ages and stations, highlighting the greatness and glory of God's name and His strength shown to His people, Israel.