ARGUMENT

ARG. THOMAS. That CHRIST, by the sweetness of His Name, may turn us from the foulness of heathenism. The Voice of the Church exhorting the people to praise GOD, and vehemently reproaching the idols of the nations, and declaring they are nothing. Whosoever therefore hath ascended the fifteen steps in faith and works, praising the Name of the LORD, will see Him face to face without end in Heaven. The Voice of the Church to the workers, because she rebuketh idols, to praise GOD for His wondrous works.

VEN. BEDE. After the beautiful structure of the Graduals, which has led up to the summit of everlasting happiness, Alleluia is most fitly placed, that the Holy Church may enjoy the praises of the LORD; and it is made known that such is the office prepared for her.

Throughout the Psalm the Prophet speaks. At the outset, he saith that praises are to be paid to the LORD, because of the mightiness of His name. Since He hath done whatsoever He pleased in heaven and in earth; describing His various great doings, Praise the Name of the Lord. In the second part, since the perfect praise of truth is to destroy falsehood, he refutes with ridicule the worshippers of idols. As for the gods of the heathen, &c. Thirdly, he counsels the various orders not to cease praising the LORD. Praise the Lord, ye house of Israel.

SYRIAC PSALTER. Anonymous. In a spiritual sense it is spoken of a soul consciously dreaming hymns, waking in union with the Trinity. And he implies in it the conversion of the Christian people to the faith.

EUSEBIUS OF CÆSAREA. Teaching to lead on.

S. ATHANASIUS. A Psalm declaratory of praise.