Psalms 113:4

Authorized King James Version

The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רָ֖ם

H7311

is high

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

גּוֹיִ֥ם׀

H1471

above all nations

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

עַ֖ל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַשָּׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

above the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

כְּבוֹדֽוֹ׃

H3519

and his glory

properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of glory differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?