Psalms 113:8

That he may set [him] with princes, [even] with the princes of his people.

That he may set {H3427} him with princes {H5081}, even with the princes {H5081} of his people {H5971}.

in order to give him a place among princes, among the princes of his people.

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

That he may set him with princes, Even with the princes of his people.

Psalm 113:8 describes the incredible transformation God can bring about in the life of the humble and needy. Following directly from verse 7, which speaks of God lifting the poor from the dust and the needy from the dunghill, this verse declares that the same person will be exalted to sit "with princes, even with the princes of his people." It is a powerful statement about divine elevation and the Lord's ability to reverse human fortunes, demonstrating His unique power and care for the marginalized.

Context

This verse is part of Psalm 113, which is the first of the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118) traditionally sung during Jewish festivals like Passover. The psalm begins with a fervent call to praise the Lord (Psalm 113:1) and emphasizes His incomparable greatness, especially in His willingness to condescend and look upon the earth. The immediate context, Psalm 113:7, sets the stage by highlighting God's profound compassion for the lowliest in society. Verse 8 then provides the glorious outcome of this divine intervention, demonstrating God's power to elevate and honor those whom society often overlooks.

Key Themes

  • Divine Reversal and Elevation: The central message is God's power to dramatically change a person's circumstances. From the lowest social standing (dust, dunghill), God raises individuals to positions of honor and influence, placing them among leaders. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, showing God's preference for the humble and His opposition to the proud (James 4:6).
  • God's Benevolence and Justice: This verse underscores God's active care for the vulnerable. It's not merely a passive observation of the poor, but an active, transformative act of setting them in places of dignity and respect. It reflects a divine justice that rectifies societal imbalances and offers hope for the downtrodden.
  • Honor and Dignity: To be set "with princes" signifies not just a change in material status, but an impartation of honor, respect, and dignity. It's a testament to God's ability to grant true worth and recognition, showcasing His sovereign power to bestow status regardless of a person's background.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "princes" here can be nedivim, which means "nobles" or "generous ones," indicating people of high standing and often of noble character. Another common word for prince is sarim, meaning "chiefs" or "rulers." The phrase "princes of his people" emphasizes that this elevation is within the community, granting authority and respect among one's own kin, reflecting a place of genuine leadership and influence within Israelite society.

Related Scriptures

The theme of God elevating the humble is a recurring motif in the Bible, demonstrating His faithfulness to His promises. Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2:8 states, "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory." Similarly, Mary's Magnificat in Luke 1:52 proclaims, "He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree." These passages consistently highlight God's sovereign power to reverse societal expectations and bestow honor where it is least expected, offering a powerful message of hope and divine intervention.

Practical Application

Psalm 113:8 offers immense encouragement and hope for all who trust in God. It reminds us that God is not limited by human social structures or economic circumstances. For those who feel overlooked, marginalized, or without influence, this verse affirms God's potential to elevate and dignify. It challenges believers to recognize God's hand in unexpected places and to cultivate humility, trusting that true elevation comes not from human striving but from God's gracious will. It also calls us to value all people, regardless of their current status, seeing them through the lens of God's potential transformation and the honor He can bestow.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Job 36:7

    He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous: but with kings [are they] on the throne; yea, he doth establish them for ever, and they are exalted.

  • Philippians 2:8

    And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

  • Philippians 2:11

    And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

  • Psalms 45:16

    Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children, whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth.

  • Genesis 41:41

    And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt.

  • Psalms 68:13

    Though ye have lien among the pots, [yet shall ye be as] the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

  • Revelation 5:9

    And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back