Psalms 146:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 146:7
7 Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners:
Chapter Context
Psalms 146 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, hope, 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 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 146:7
7 Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners:
Analysis
Which executeth judgment for the oppressed (עֹשֶׂה מִשְׁפָּט לַעֲשׁוּקִים)—The Hebrew mishpat denotes both justice and judgment; God actively vindicates (ashuqim) those crushed by exploitation. This isn't passive sympathy but divine intervention in earthly affairs.
Which giveth food to the hungry (נֹתֵן לֶחֶם לָרְעֵבִים)—God's lechem (bread) provision echoes the manna narrative (Exodus 16) and anticipates Jesus as the Bread of Life (John 6:35). The LORD looseth the prisoners (יְהוָה מַתִּיר אֲסוּרִים)—The verb matir means to release or unbind. Jesus applied this liberation motif to His messianic mission (Luke 4:18), encompassing physical, spiritual, and demonic bondage. This triadic description—justice, provision, liberation—defines God's covenant character and the ethics He demands of His people (Isaiah 58:6-7).
Historical Context
Psalms 146-150 form the final 'Hallelujah Psalms' concluding the Psalter. Likely post-exilic (after 538 BC), this psalm reflects Israel's experience of oppression, hunger, and captivity—yet maintains confidence in YHWH's faithful intervention. It contrasts human princes (v. 3-4) with the eternal God who defends the vulnerable.
Reflection
- How does God's character as defender of the oppressed challenge your response to injustice in your community?
- In what ways might you be held 'prisoner'—and how does Christ's liberating work apply to your specific bondage?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Judgment: Psalms 10:18, 103:6
- References Lord: Isaiah 61:1, Luke 4:18
- Parallel theme: Psalms 68:6, 142:7