Praise and Doxology

Lore & Background

Praise is not always directed to God; human praise appears in contrasting contexts. Absalom was praised for his beauty above all in Israel (2 Samuel 14:25), and the Philistines praised their god Dagon after Samson's capture (Judges 16:24). Yet the biblical narrative consistently affirms that the LORD alone is worthy of praise (1 Chronicles 16:25; 2 Samuel 22:4). The name Judah itself means 'praise,' stemming from Leah's declaration at his birth (Genesis 29:35) and Jacob's blessing that his brothers would praise him (Genesis 49:8).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray praise as a response to God's actions and character, often expressed through music, song, and corporate declaration. The Levites were specifically appointed to praise with instruments (1 Chronicles 23:5; 2 Chronicles 5:13), and the people joined in unified acclamation (2 Chronicles 7:3). Praise is also a personal act: David vows to sing praises among the nations (2 Samuel 22:50) and calls on the LORD who is worthy to be praised (2 Samuel 22:4). The content of praise frequently highlights God's enduring mercy (2 Chronicles 5:13; 2 Chronicles 7:6) and His glorious holiness (Exodus 15:11). The passages also show that praise can be misdirected, as when people praised their own god or human beauty (Judges 16:24; 2 Samuel 14:25), contrasting with the exclusive praise due to God (1 Chronicles 16:25).

Did You Know?

• The name Judah means 'praise,' given by Leah when she said, 'Now will I praise the LORD' (Genesis 29:35).
• In Revelation 5:13, every creature in heaven, earth, under the earth, and the sea joins in a doxology to God and the Lamb.
• The Philistines praised their god Dagon after Samson's capture, showing praise can be directed to false gods (Judges 16:24).