Psalms 148: Heaven and earth are summoned into one praise

Psalm 148 turns creation into an addressed assembly. The summons begins above, among angels, heavenly hosts, sun, moon, stars, highest heavens, and waters, then descends through sea creatures, weather, mountains, hills, trees, animals, rulers, peoples, ages, and sexes. The catalogue is wide without pretending that every creature praises in the same manner. Its unity lies in relation to the maker whose command brought the heavens into being and whose word the storm wind fulfills. Sun, moon, and stars are called to praise rather than treated as objects of worship. The ending then makes two claims at once: the Lord's name is exalted above earth and heaven, while Israel is described intimately as a people near to him. Cosmic height and particular nearness occupy the same conclusion.