Psalm 113:7

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

Study Bible

He raises
The phrase "He raises" in Psalm 113:7 speaks to the active intervention of God in the lives of His people. The Hebrew root word here is "קוּם" (qum), which means to rise, stand up, or establish. This action is not passive; it is a deliberate and powerful movement by God to elevate those who are lowly. In the historical context of ancient Israel, this would resonate deeply, as the people often faced oppression and hardship. The imagery of God raising someone up is a testament to His sovereignty and His ability to change circumstances, reflecting His compassion and justice.

the poor
"The poor" refers to those who are economically disadvantaged, but in a broader sense, it also includes those who are humble or lowly in spirit. The Hebrew word used here is "דָּל" (dal), which can mean weak, thin, or needy. In the scriptural context, the poor are often seen as those who are especially close to God's heart, as they rely on Him for their sustenance and deliverance. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, where the poor are blessed and promised the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3). The historical context of the ancient Near East, where social hierarchies were rigid, makes this divine concern for the poor even more radical and profound.

from the dust
"From the dust" evokes the image of someone in a state of utter humility or degradation. The Hebrew word "עָפָר" (afar) means dust or dry earth, symbolizing mortality and lowliness. This phrase is reminiscent of the creation narrative in Genesis, where God forms man from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). It underscores the transformative power of God, who can lift someone from the lowest point to a place of honor. Archaeologically, dust and ashes were often associated with mourning and repentance, further emphasizing the depth from which God rescues His people.

and lifts
The word "and lifts" continues the theme of divine elevation. The Hebrew root "נָשָׂא" (nasa) means to lift, carry, or bear. This action is not just about physical elevation but also about restoring dignity and honor. In the biblical narrative, God is frequently depicted as the one who lifts the burdens of His people, whether they are physical, emotional, or spiritual. This lifting is an act of grace, demonstrating God's willingness to engage with humanity and transform their circumstances.

the needy
"The needy" refers to those who are in want or distress. The Hebrew word "אֶבְיוֹן" (evyon) conveys a sense of desperation and dependence. In the biblical context, the needy are often those who cry out to God for help, and He is portrayed as their defender and provider. This reflects the consistent biblical theme that God is a refuge for the oppressed and a stronghold in times of trouble (Psalm 9:9). Historically, the needy in Israelite society would include widows, orphans, and foreigners, groups that were particularly vulnerable and thus under God's special protection.

from the ash heap
"From the ash heap" is a vivid image of desolation and despair. The Hebrew word "אַשְׁפֹּת" (ashpot) refers to a heap of ashes, often associated with refuse or waste. In ancient times, ash heaps were places of rejection and abandonment, yet God chooses to lift people from these very places. This phrase highlights the redemptive power of God, who can bring beauty from ashes and joy from mourning (Isaiah 61:3). It serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to restore and renew, no matter how dire the situation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Poor and Needy
This refers to individuals who are economically disadvantaged or in a state of humility and need. In the biblical context, these terms often symbolize those who are spiritually humble and reliant on God.

2. The Dust and Ash Heap
These are symbolic places representing lowliness, despair, and degradation. In ancient times, dust and ashes were associated with mourning and repentance.

3. God
The central figure in this verse, God is depicted as the one who intervenes in the lives of the poor and needy, demonstrating His power and compassion.

Teaching Points

God's Compassion for the Humble
God is deeply concerned with the plight of the humble and needy. His actions demonstrate His love and compassion, reminding us that no situation is beyond His reach.

Divine Reversal
The verse illustrates a divine reversal where God changes the status of individuals, lifting them from lowliness to honor. This encourages believers to trust in God's timing and sovereignty.

Spiritual Humility
The physical lifting of the poor symbolizes spiritual truths. Believers are called to maintain humility, recognizing their dependence on God for spiritual elevation.

Hope in Despair
This verse offers hope to those in despair, assuring them that God sees their condition and has the power to change it. It encourages perseverance and faith in God's promises.

Call to Action
As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate God's compassion by helping those in need, reflecting His love and mercy in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Psalm 113:7 reflect God's character and His relationship with humanity?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of divine reversal in our own lives, especially when facing challenging circumstances?

3. How do the themes in Psalm 113:7 connect with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly regarding humility and exaltation?

4. What practical steps can we take to demonstrate God's compassion to the poor and needy in our communities?

5. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of "dust" and "ash heap" enhance our interpretation of this verse?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 2:8
This verse echoes the theme of God lifting the needy, as Hannah praises God for raising the poor from the dust and seating them with princes. It highlights God's ability to transform lives and elevate the humble.

Luke 1:52
Mary's Magnificat reflects a similar theme, where God is praised for bringing down rulers and lifting up the humble, showing the continuity of God's character throughout the Bible.

James 4:10
This New Testament verse encourages believers to humble themselves before the Lord, who will then lift them up, reinforcing the principle of divine exaltation of the humble.