Psalm 135-136, from John MacArthur Study Bible Notes.
These two Psalms complete the "Great Hallal." The composer and occasion of Ps. 135 are unknown but likely postexhilic. Psalm 135:15-20 is strikingly similar to 115:4-11.
Psalm 135
I. Call to Praise (135:1-2)
II. Causes for Praise (135:3-18)
- God's Character (135:3)
- God's Choice of Jacob (135:4)
- God's Sovereignty in Creation (135:5-7)
- God's Deliverance of Israel (135:8-12)
- God's Unique Nature (135:13-18)
Psalm 136
This Psalm, extremely similar to Psalm 135, closes the "Great Hallal*." Unique to all the Psalms, Ps. 136 uses the antiphonal* refrain "for His steadfast love endures forever" after each stanza, perhaps spoken by the people in responsive worship. Author and occasion remains unknown.
I. Call to Praise (136:1-3)
II. Causes for Praise (136:4-22).
- God's Creation (136: 4-9)
- God's Deliverance (136: 10-15)
- God's Care and Gift (136:16-22)
*antiphonal = of music, especially church music, or a section of a church liturgy) sung, recited, or played alternately by two groups.
*Hallal = praise, hallelujah