
Psalm 113
Psalm 113 is a hymn of praise, emphasizing the greatness of God and His care for the lowly. It begins with a call to praise the Lord and continues to exalt His majesty, highlighting how He raises the humble and provides for the needy. This psalm is part of the "Hallel" collection (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung during Jewish festivals, especially Passover.
Psalm 113:1-3 (NKJV)
1 Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, Praise the name of the Lord!
2 Blessed be the name of the Lord From this time forth and forevermore!
3 From the rising of the sun to its going down The Lord’s name is to be praised.
The psalm opens with an enthusiastic call for all who serve the Lord to praise Him. It emphasizes that the Lord’s name is worthy of eternal praise, not limited to any time or place. Whether at sunrise or sunset, God’s greatness should be acknowledged. This call to unending worship signifies God’s constant presence and faithfulness across time and space.
Psalm 113:4-6 (NKJV)
4 The Lord is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens.
5 Who is like the Lord our God, Who dwells on high,
6 Who humbles Himself to behold The things that are in the heavens and in the earth?
These verses exalt God’s supreme authority, declaring that He is higher than any earthly nation or celestial realm. The rhetorical question in verse 5 emphasizes God's uniqueness—there is no one comparable to Him. Despite His exalted position, God humbles Himself to observe the affairs of both heaven and earth, reflecting His intimate involvement with His creation.
Psalm 113:7-9 (NKJV)
7 He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap,
8 That He may seat him with princes— With the princes of His people.
9 He grants the barren woman a home, Like a joyful mother of children. Praise the Lord!
God's care for the downtrodden is vividly depicted here. He not only rescues the poor and needy from their lowly state but elevates them to positions of honor, even among princes. Verse 9 highlights God's compassion by blessing a barren woman with a family, transforming her sorrow into joy. The psalm ends with another call to praise, underscoring the message that God’s power is matched by His mercy and kindness.