PSALM 113

Ps 113:1–9. God’s majesty contrasted with His condescension and gracious dealings towards the humble furnish matter and a call for praise. The Jews, it is said, used this and Psalms 114–118 on their great festivals, and called them the Greater Hallel, or Hymn.

1. Earnestness and zeal are denoted by the emphatic repetitions.

servants of the Lord—or, all the people of God.

name of the Lord—perfections (Ps 5:11; 111:9).

3. From the rising, &c.—all the world.

4. God’s exaltation enhances His condescension;

7, 8. which condescension is illustrated as often in raising the worthy poor and needy to honor (compare 1 Sa 2:8; Ps 44:25).

9. On this special case, compare 1 Sa 2:21. Barrenness was regarded as a disgrace, and is a type of a deserted Church (Is 54:1).

the barren woman … house—literally, “the barren of the house,” so that the supplied words may be omitted.