Psalms 113:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 113:7
7 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill;
Chapter Context
Psalms 113 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, discipleship, righteousness. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 113:7
7 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill;
Analysis
"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill." The verse illustrates God's condescension (v.6) through specific examples. Mekimi me'afar dal (who raises from dust the poor/weak). Qum (raise) means to lift up, establish, cause to stand. Afar (dust) indicates lowest position—sitting in dust signals mourning, poverty, or humiliation. Dal (poor/weak/thin) describes the economically vulnerable. Me'ashpot yarim evyon (from refuse heap lifts the needy). Ashpot (refuse heap/dunghill) was where the destitute scavenged for food or warmth—ultimate degradation. Evyon (needy/poor) emphasizes lack. God specializes in radical reversals—lifting those in literal and spiritual poverty to honor. This anticipates Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1:52-53) and James 2:5 (God chose the poor rich in faith).
Historical Context
Hannah's song (1 Samuel 2:8) uses nearly identical language, celebrating God's reversal of her barrenness. Ruth gleaned in fields (poverty), but God elevated her to Boaz's wife, David's great-grandmother, Christ's ancestor (Ruth 4:13-22). Joseph went from pit to prison to palace (Genesis 37-41). David rose from youngest shepherd to king. Esther moved from orphan to queen, saving her people. Daniel went from exile to prime minister. The pattern continues: Jesus born in stable, laid in manger, yet exalted above all names (Philippians 2:9-11). Disciples were fishermen, tax collectors, zealots—yet turned world upside down (Acts 17:6). Paul was chief of sinners, yet became chief apostle (1 Timothy 1:15-16).
Reflection
- What "dust" or "dunghill" situations have you experienced from which God lifted you?
- How does God's pattern of elevating the lowly challenge worldly values of status and success?
- In what ways should believers participate in God's work of lifting the poor and needy?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 107:41, Job 5:11, Ezekiel 17:24, James 2:5