Psalms 113:7

Authorized King James Version

He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מְקִֽימִ֣י
H6965
He raiseth up
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#2
מֵעָפָ֣ר
H6083
out of the dust
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
#3
דָּ֑ל
H1800
the poor
properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin
#4
מֵֽ֝אַשְׁפֹּ֗ת
H830
out of the dunghill
a heap of rubbish or filth
#5
יָרִ֥ים
H7311
and lifteth
to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#6
אֶבְיֽוֹן׃
H34
the needy
destitute

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection