113:1 Praise Yah See note on 104:35.

the name of Yahweh Refers broadly to God’s character and nature. See note on 91:14.

113:2 blessed See note on 106:48.

113:4 high A figure of speech that emphasizes God’s ultimate authority over all the nations.

all nations Refers to geographical territories outside of Israel. See note on 96:3.

his glory is above the heavens Just as Yahweh is above the nations and has authority over them, He has authority over the heavens as well. Yahweh is not bounded by the heavens—as other ancient Near Eastern gods were generally believed to be—and He is above any other beings that inhabit the heavenly realm.

113:5 Yahweh our God The Hebrew text here uses the phrase yhwh eloheinu, which may be rendered “Yahweh our God.” This combination of names for Yahweh originated in the exodus story, where God reveals His personal name (Exod 3:14; 6:2, 8) and enters into a covenant with Israel (Exod 19:5–6).

who is enthroned on high The image of a seated king implies stable authority and rule—the king, Yahweh, is not away from his throne in an effort to subdue his kingdom, but rules it from the splendor of his palace.

113:6 who condescends to look at This phrase further emphasizes Yahweh’s position above everything (see Psa 113:4 and note). He rules over the entire created order (including heaven), and His nature and capacity cannot be contained within that created order.

heavens and in the earth A figure of speech that indicates “everything.”

113:7 the dust The word aphar is also used in Gen 2:7.

the needy May also refer to the misery that comes from oppression. See note on Ps 109:16.

the ash heap The Hebrew word used here, ashpoth, refers to a heap of ash, garbage, or manure. See note on 102:9.

113:8 princes The term nadiv (“nobility”) refers to the ruling class that has great power.

the princes of his people The psalmist now describes leaders within the social structure of Israel. Yahweh helps with the physical needs of people, and also alleviates social stigma and shame.

113:9 the barren woman of Israelites often interpreted childlessness as divine punishment that could lead to divorce (Exod 23:26; Deut 7:14). Further, children were a source of pride and satisfaction and could provide for their aged parents.