89:5-14 These verses exalt the uniqueness of Yahweh. Ethan praised Him for His attributes (vv. 5-8) and works (vv. 9-14). Outstanding among His attributes are His faithfulness and His might. The "holy ones"(v. 7) are the angels. The works he cited were subduing the flood, defeating Egypt (Rahab, cf. 87:4) at the Exodus, and creating the heavens and earth. He personified Mt. Tabor and Mt. Hermon rejoicing in God's great power.
"Tabor and Hermonare possibly paired as works of God which praise Him in different ways: the lowly Tabor (1,900 ft.) by its history, as the scene of Deborah's victory, and the giant Hermon (9,000 ft.) by its physical majesty. The Creator's hand is both strong and high (13)."156
89:15-18 Ethan went on to speak of the blessings the Israelites who acknowledged and walked with God experienced. They had joy, exaltation, glory, strength, and security. "The joyful sound"(v. 15, NASB) refers to the shout of joy God's people uttered when they saw Him lifted up and honored (cf. 1 Sam. 4:5-6).157A better translation might be, "Happy the people who have learnt to acclaim thee"(NEB). "Our horn"(v. 17) means "our strength."Ethan rejoiced that Israel's king who was her defense belonged to God (v. 18).
