Psalms 113:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 113:1
1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
Chapter Context
Psalms 113 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, discipleship, redemption. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 113:1
1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
Analysis
Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. This triadic call to worship opens the Hallel psalms (113-118) with emphatic, repetitive summons. The threefold "Praise" (הַלְלוּ/halelu) creates rhythmic intensity, each iteration reinforcing the command. Halal means to celebrate, boast, shine, or make a show—exuberant, demonstrative worship, not quiet contemplation.
"Praise ye the LORD" (הַלְלוּ־יָהּ/halelu-Yah)—the familiar "Hallelujah"—frames the psalm (vv. 1, 9), bracketing all creation's praise. This isn't suggestion but command, communal imperative. The object of praise is יָהּ (Yah), shortened form of Yahweh (יהוה), God's covenant name revealed to Moses. Worship isn't generic but directed to the specific God who revealed Himself to Israel.
"O ye servants of the LORD" (עַבְדֵי יְהוָה/avdei Yahweh) identifies the worshipers: those who serve God. Eved can mean slave or servant, emphasizing both submission and relationship. These aren't casual admirers but committed servants whose lives belong to God. Finally, "praise the name of the LORD" (אֶת־שֵׁם יְהוָה/et-shem Yahweh) shifts from praising God Himself to praising His name—His revealed character, reputation, and attributes. God's name encompasses all He has disclosed about Himself.
Historical Context
Psalms 113-118 comprise the Egyptian Hallel, sung during Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles, and Hanukkah. Specifically, Psalms 113-114 were sung before the Passover meal, 115-118 after. Jesus and His disciples sang these psalms at the Last Supper (Matthew 26:30), making Psalm 113's call to praise Jesus's own worship before His crucifixion. The designation 'servants of the LORD' originally applied to Levitical priests and temple singers but expanded to include all Israel and ultimately all believers who serve God through Christ.
Reflection
- How does the threefold repetition of 'praise' challenge passive or half-hearted worship in your own life?
- What does it mean to identify as a 'servant of the LORD'—how should this identity shape daily priorities and decisions?
- What aspects of 'the name of the LORD'—His revealed character—most inspire your praise, and how can you cultivate greater awareness of His nature?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord