Psalms 103:6
The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.
Original Language Analysis
עֹשֵׂ֣ה
executeth
H6213
עֹשֵׂ֣ה
executeth
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
צְדָק֣וֹת
righteousness
H6666
צְדָק֣וֹת
righteousness
Strong's:
H6666
Word #:
2 of 6
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
יְהוָ֑ה
The LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
The LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וּ֝מִשְׁפָּטִ֗ים
and judgment
H4941
וּ֝מִשְׁפָּטִ֗ים
and judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
Cross References
Psalms 12:5For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.Psalms 9:9The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.Psalms 72:12For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.Psalms 146:7Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners:Proverbs 14:31He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.Psalms 109:31For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul.James 2:6But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?Psalms 72:4He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.Ezekiel 22:7In thee have they set light by father and mother: in the midst of thee have they dealt by oppression with the stranger: in thee have they vexed the fatherless and the widow.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern societies had widespread oppression of the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners. Israel's God distinguished Himself by commanding His people to practice justice and by personally defending the vulnerable.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your life demonstrate God's concern for justice and the oppressed?
- What forms of oppression in your community require the church's advocacy and action?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
God 'executes righteousness' (tsedaqah) and 'judgment' (mishpat) for all the oppressed. This isn't arbitrary favoritism but commitment to justice for the vulnerable. God's character as defender of the oppressed permeates Scripture (Deut 10:18, Ps 146:7-9). The Reformed emphasis on God's justice recognizes both His punitive judgment of sin and His protective justice toward victims. Christ's ministry consistently championed the marginalized, and believers are called to reflect this concern for justice.