Psalm 113:3
From where the sun rises to where it sets, the name of the LORD is praised.
From the rising of the sun
This phrase poetically captures the idea of the entire span of a day, from dawn to dusk. In Hebrew, the word for "rising" is "מִמִּזְרַח" (mimizrach), which literally means "from the east." This not only refers to the physical act of the sun rising but also symbolizes the beginning of all things, the start of life, and the renewal of God's mercies each morning. Historically, the rising sun was a powerful symbol in ancient Near Eastern cultures, often associated with divine presence and favor. In the context of Psalm 113, it emphasizes the omnipresence and eternal nature of God's praise, suggesting that from the very start of the day, God is to be acknowledged and worshipped.

to the place where it sets
This phrase completes the thought initiated by the rising of the sun, indicating the full course of the day. The Hebrew word for "sets" is "מְבוֹאוֹ" (mevo'o), meaning "its going down" or "its entrance," which can also imply the end of a journey. This suggests that God's praise is not limited to a specific time or place but is continuous and universal. The imagery of the sun setting in the west complements the rising in the east, symbolizing the totality of creation and the comprehensive nature of God's dominion. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all the earth, as seen in other scriptures that speak of His glory filling the whole world.

the name of the LORD
In Hebrew, "the name of the LORD" is "שֵׁם יְהוָה" (shem YHWH). The "name" in biblical terms often represents the character, authority, and reputation of a person. In this context, it signifies the essence and majesty of God Himself. The use of "LORD" in all capital letters is a translation convention for the divine name YHWH, the sacred and covenantal name of God revealed to Moses. This name is deeply significant in the Hebrew tradition, representing God's eternal existence, faithfulness, and unchanging nature. The invocation of God's name in this verse underscores the call to worship and reverence, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness.

is worthy of praise
The Hebrew word for "worthy of praise" is "מְהֻלָּל" (mehullal), which means "to be praised" or "to be celebrated." This word conveys the idea of giving honor and glory to God, recognizing His greatness and deeds. The phrase suggests that God's inherent nature and actions make Him deserving of continuous adoration and worship. In the conservative Christian perspective, this is a call to believers to live a life of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and grace in every aspect of life. It is a reminder that praise is not just an act of worship but a response to who God is and what He has done, both in creation and in the lives of His people.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing the God of Israel, who is worthy of praise at all times and in all places.

2. The Rising and Setting of the Sun
This phrase symbolizes the entirety of the day, from morning to evening, and by extension, the whole world, as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

3. The Psalmist
Traditionally attributed to the authorship of the Psalms, the psalmist here is calling for continuous and universal praise of God.
Teaching Points
Continuous Praise
We are called to praise God throughout our day, recognizing His presence and sovereignty in every moment.

Universal Worship
God's worthiness of praise is not limited by geography or time; it is a call for all people everywhere to acknowledge His greatness.

God's Sovereignty
The imagery of the sun rising and setting reminds us of God's control over creation, encouraging us to trust in His divine plan.

Personal Devotion
This verse challenges us to incorporate praise into our daily routines, fostering a lifestyle of worship.

Community Worship
Encourages believers to gather and praise God together, reflecting the communal aspect of worship that spans across the globe.
Bible Study Questions
1. How can you incorporate praise into your daily routine from morning to evening?

2. In what ways does recognizing God's sovereignty over creation impact your trust in Him?

3. How does the call for universal praise challenge you to think about your role in sharing the Gospel?

4. What are some practical ways you can join with others in your community to praise God?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures deepen your understanding of God's desire for continuous and universal worship?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Malachi 1:11
This verse speaks of God's name being great among the nations, from the rising to the setting of the sun, emphasizing the universal recognition and worship of God.

Philippians 2:9-11
These verses highlight the exaltation of Jesus' name, where every knee should bow, connecting to the theme of God's name being praised universally.

Revelation 5:13
This verse describes every creature in heaven and on earth praising God, aligning with the idea of continuous and universal worship.
Universal PraiseR. Tuck Psalm 113:3
Highest Service and the Highest BeingHomilistPsalm 113:1-9
People
Psalmist
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Lord's, Praised, Rising, Sets, Setting, Thereof
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 113:3

     4284   sun
     4821   east
     4857   west

Psalm 113:3-6

     1110   God, present everywhere

Library
Boniface, Apostle of the Germans.
BONIFACE, or Winfried, as they called him in Anglo-Saxon, born at Crediton in Devonshire, in 680, deserves to be honoured as the father of the German Church, although he was by no means the first who brought the seeds of the Gospel to Germany. Many had already laboured before him; but the efforts which had been made here and there did not suffice to secure the endurance of Christianity amongst the many perils to which it was exposed. Christianity needs to be linked with firm ecclesiastical institutions,
Augustus Neander—Light in the Dark Places

The Consecration of Joy
'And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 34. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the Lord. 35. On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein. 36. Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the Lord; on the eighth day shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the Lord: it is a solemn assembly; and ye shall
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

In the Last, the Great Day of the Feast'
IT was the last, the great day of the Feast,' and Jesus was once more in the Temple. We can scarcely doubt that it was the concluding day of the Feast, and not, as most modern writers suppose, its Octave, which, in Rabbinic language, was regarded as a festival by itself.' [3987] [3988] But such solemn interest attaches to the Feast, and this occurrence on its last day, that we must try to realise the scene. We have here the only Old Testament type yet unfilfilled; the only Jewish festival which has
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Sermon on the Mount - the Kingdom of Christ and Rabbinic Teaching.
It was probably on one of those mountain-ranges, which stretch to the north of Capernaum, that Jesus had spent the night of lonely prayer, which preceded the designation of the twelve to the Apostolate. As the soft spring morning broke, He called up those who had learned to follow Him, and from among them chose the twelve, who were to be His Ambassadors and Representatives. [2500] [2501] But already the early light had guided the eager multitude which, from all parts, had come to the broad level
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Vehicles of Revelation; Scripture, the Church, Tradition.
(a) The supreme and unique revelation of God to man is in the Person of the Incarnate Son. But though unique the Incarnation is not solitary. Before it there was the divine institution of the Law and the Prophets, the former a typical anticipation (de Incarn. 40. 2) of the destined reality, and along with the latter (ib. 12. 2 and 5) for all the world a holy school of the knowledge of God and the conduct of the soul.' After it there is the history of the life and teaching of Christ and the writings
Athanasius—Select Works and Letters or Athanasius

Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis
To Suger, Abbot of S. Denis He praises Suger, who had unexpectedly renounced the pride and luxury of the world to give himself to the modest habits of the religious life. He blames severely the clerk who devotes himself rather to the service of princes than that of God. 1. A piece of good news has reached our district; it cannot fail to do great good to whomsoever it shall have come. For who that fear God, hearing what great things He has done for your soul, do not rejoice and wonder at the great
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Messiah's Easy Yoke
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. T hough the influence of education and example, may dispose us to acknowledge the Gospel to be a revelation from God; it can only be rightly understood, or duly prized, by those persons who feel themselves in the circumstances of distress, which it is designed to relieve. No Israelite would think of fleeing to a city of refuge (Joshua 20:2.
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

King of Kings and Lord of Lords
And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, K ING OF K INGS AND L ORD OF L ORDS T he description of the administration and glory of the Redeemer's Kingdom, in defiance of all opposition, concludes the second part of Messiah Oratorio. Three different passages from the book of Revelation are selected to form a grand chorus, of which Handel's title in this verse is the close --a title which has been sometimes vainly usurped by proud worms of this earth. Eastern monarchs, in particular,
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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