Berean Standard Bible · Public domain

Psalm 113

Israel’s prayers give language for praise, grief, repentance, and trust. Poetry uses imagery and parallel lines; each psalm should be read as a whole rather than as a detached promise.

Historical context & book outline

1Hallelujah! Give praise, O servants of the LORD; praise the name of the LORD.

2Blessed be the name of the LORD both now and forevermore.

3From where the sun rises to where it sets, the name of the LORD is praised.

4The LORD is exalted over all the nations, His glory above the heavens.

5Who is like the LORD our God, the One enthroned on high?

6He humbles Himself to behold the heavens and the earth.

7He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the dump

8to seat them with nobles, with the princes of His people.

9He settles the barren woman in her home as a joyful mother to her children. Hallelujah!

Read closely

  1. What repeated words, contrasts, or actions stand out in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter fit the surrounding chapters and the book’s purpose?
  3. What did it communicate to its first hearers, before applying it to your life?