Psalms 75:6
For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
לֹ֣א
H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
2 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
מִ֭מּוֹצָא
cometh neither from the east
H4161
מִ֭מּוֹצָא
cometh neither from the east
Strong's:
H4161
Word #:
3 of 7
a going forth, i.e., (the act) an egress, or (the place) an exit; hence, a source or product; specifically, dawn, the rising of the sun (the east), ex
וּמִֽמַּעֲרָ֑ב
nor from the west
H4628
וּמִֽמַּעֲרָ֑ב
nor from the west
Strong's:
H4628
Word #:
4 of 7
the west (as a region of the evening sun)
וְ֝לֹ֗א
H3808
וְ֝לֹ֗א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern empires arose from various directions—Egypt (south), Assyria/Babylon (east/north), Greece/Rome (west). Yet none ultimately controlled human destiny; God sovereignly raised and lowered nations (Daniel 2:21). Joseph's elevation from prison to palace exemplified divine promotion despite circumstances (Genesis 41). Jesus taught that exaltation comes through humility (Luke 14:11, 18:14).
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing that promotion comes from God alone change your approach to ambition and career?
- What worldly strategies for advancement (networking, self-promotion, manipulation) does this verse challenge?
- How did Christ's path to exaltation through humiliation and cross (Philippians 2:9-11) exemplify this principle?
Analysis & Commentary
The psalm teaches: "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south" (Hebrew ki lo mi-motza u-mi-ma-arav v-lo mid-bar harim). The three directions (excluding north where God's throne is, v.6) represent all earthly sources. "Promotion" (Hebrew harim, literally "lifting up") doesn't come from human sources—geography, politics, or effort. The verse demolishes self-advancement, establishing that elevation comes solely from God. This humbles pride and encourages trust.