The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord's; literally, the heavens are heavens of Jehovah. They belong to him—he dwells there; but it is otherwise with the earth. But the earth hath he given to the children of men. For man God framed this fair world; to man's use he adapted it with minutest care; and certainly not least for his own people, who are "the salt of the earth"—the human race by representation.
Once more the choir and congregation speak. The mention of "heaven and earth" (Psalms 115:15) reminds them of the third place—Sheol. In Sheol is no praise of God, but only "silence." They, at any rate, while they remain on earth, and have the power to praise God, will praise him without ceasing.