Psalms 138:6

KJV

¶ Though the LORD [be] high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.

KJV (with Strong's)

Though the LORD {H3068} be high {H7311}, yet hath he respect {H7200} unto the lowly {H8217}: but the proud {H1364} he knoweth {H3045} afar off {H4801}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For though ADONAI is high, he cares for the lowly; while the proud he perceives from afar.

Berean Standard Bible

Though the LORD is on high, He attends to the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.

American Standard Version

For though Jehovah is high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly; But the haughty he knoweth from afar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 138:6 profoundly reveals the paradoxical yet consistent nature of God: His transcendent majesty does not preclude intimate engagement with humanity. Despite His exalted position, the LORD demonstrates a tender, personal regard for those who are humble and lowly in spirit, while maintaining a deliberate, discerning distance from the arrogant and proud, underscoring a fundamental principle of divine justice and grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 138 is a psalm of thanksgiving, attributed to David, immediately following a cluster of psalms (120-137) often associated with pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem. David begins by declaring his intention to praise God before gods (or rulers) and in His holy temple, acknowledging God's faithfulness and lovingkindness in answering prayer and preserving his life. The preceding verses (1-5) set a tone of personal gratitude and universal praise, where David expresses wonder that even kings of the earth will praise the LORD because they have heard of His ways. Verse 6 then introduces a stark contrast, shifting from God's universal renown to His specific disposition towards different human attitudes, emphasizing that despite His supreme glory, His attention is particularly fixed on the humble, while the proud are kept at a distance. This verse serves as a theological anchor, explaining *why* God is worthy of such praise—because His greatness is not aloof but intimately concerned with the character of His people.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, kings and deities were typically portrayed as distant, powerful figures, often inaccessible to common people. Earthly monarchs were expected to be proud and to maintain their authority through displays of might and grandeur. Against this backdrop, the portrayal of Yahweh in Psalms 138:6 is revolutionary. While affirming His supreme "highness" (transcendence), it subverts the typical power dynamic by asserting His active "respect" for the "lowly" (the humble, oppressed, or afflicted). This challenges the prevailing social hierarchies and religious norms, where divine favor was often associated with earthly status or ritualistic performance. The concept of God humbling Himself to notice the humble was a radical departure, emphasizing a covenantal relationship based on character rather than status, a theme deeply rooted in Israel's history of God choosing the seemingly insignificant (e.g., Abraham, Moses, David himself).

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several core theological themes prevalent throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Condescension and Accessibility**, demonstrating that God's supreme sovereignty and transcendence (His "highness") do not lead to aloofness but rather to a profound willingness to engage intimately with humanity, particularly those who acknowledge their dependence on Him. This is a foundational aspect of God's character, seen in His covenant with Israel and His redemptive plan. Secondly, it underscores the **Value of Humility and the Danger of Pride**. God's "respect" for the lowly signifies His favorable regard, active care, and intimate knowledge of those who are meek, contrite, or afflicted. Conversely, His knowing the proud "afar off" implies a deliberate relational distance, a lack of intimate fellowship, and even a watchful, discerning judgment, reflecting His opposition to human arrogance. This theme is consistently echoed throughout Scripture, from the warnings in [Proverbs](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction") to the teachings of Jesus in [the Beatitudes](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit"). The verse thus functions as a powerful statement on **Divine Justice and Moral Order**, affirming that God's favor is not arbitrary but is aligned with the heart posture of individuals.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This refers to the covenant name of God, Jehovah, signifying "the self-Existent or Eternal." Its inclusion here emphasizes that it is the personal, covenant-keeping God of Israel, the ultimate sovereign, who possesses this unique characteristic of relating to humanity based on humility and pride. It underscores that this attribute is inherent to His very being.
* **high (Hebrew, _rûwm'_):** This primitive root means "to be high actively, to rise or raise," encompassing concepts like exaltation, loftiness, and being set up on high. When applied to the LORD, it denotes His supreme transcendence, His elevated position above all creation, and His absolute sovereignty. It signifies His unapproachable majesty and infinite power, setting the stage for the contrast with His interaction with the lowly.
* **respect (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to see, literally or figuratively." While it can mean simple observation, in this context, coupled with "unto the lowly," it implies a deeper, more active engagement: to behold with favor, to regard with care, to discern and approve. It suggests not just intellectual knowledge but a compassionate, attentive, and favorable gaze, indicating active concern and intervention.
* **lowly (Hebrew, _shâphâl'_):** Derived from a root meaning "depressed," this term refers to those who are humble, low, or abased, either in social standing, spiritual posture, or through affliction. It describes individuals who recognize their dependence and insignificance before God, contrasting sharply with those who are self-sufficient or arrogant. God's "respect" for them highlights His preference for a contrite and humble spirit.
* **proud (Hebrew, _gâbôahh'_):** This word, from a root meaning "to be high," describes someone who is elevated, elated, powerful, or, more critically, arrogant and haughty. It signifies a spirit of self-sufficiency, self-exaltation, and disdain for God or others. This term stands in direct opposition to "lowly," representing the attitude that God actively resists.
* **knoweth (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to know," encompassing a vast range of senses from mere acquaintance to intimate, experiential knowledge. When applied to God, it signifies His omniscience. However, the addition of "afar off" profoundly qualifies this knowledge. It implies not a lack of awareness (God knows all things), but a lack of intimate, favorable, or covenantal fellowship. It is a knowledge of judgment or discernment, a recognition of their ways, but without the accompanying close relationship or favor granted to the humble.
* **afar off (Hebrew, _merchâq'_):** This term signifies "remoteness" or "a distant place." When used adverbially with "knoweth," it emphasizes a spatial and relational distance. God's knowledge of the proud is not one of intimate communion or approval, but rather a watchful, discerning observation from a position of separation, implying a lack of favor and perhaps even impending judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Though the LORD be high,"**: This clause establishes God's supreme transcendence and exalted position. He is not merely a powerful deity among others, but the LORD, the self-existent God, who dwells in unapproachable light and majesty, far above all earthly concerns and human limitations. This sets the stage for the remarkable truth that follows.
* **"yet hath he respect unto the lowly:"**: Despite His infinite height and glory, the LORD actively turns His gaze and attention towards those who are humble, meek, or afflicted. His "respect" (from _râʼâh_, "to see") implies a favorable, compassionate, and attentive regard, signifying His active care, approval, and willingness to draw near to those who acknowledge their dependence on Him. This reveals God's profound humility and accessibility.
* **"but the proud he knoweth afar off."**: In stark contrast to His intimate engagement with the humble, God maintains a deliberate distance from the proud. His "knowledge" (_yâdaʻ_) of them is not one of intimate fellowship or approval, but rather a discerning awareness from a "remoteness" (_merchâq_). This signifies a lack of favorable relationship, a separation, and perhaps even a watchful judgment, underscoring God's opposition to arrogance and self-sufficiency.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 138:6 is rich in literary devices that amplify its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, which is immediately evident in the parallel structure: God's interaction with the "lowly" is set in direct opposition to His interaction with the "proud." This stark juxtaposition highlights the differing outcomes of these two heart postures before God. The phrase "Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly" employs **Paradox**, as it presents a seemingly contradictory idea—the infinitely exalted God condescending to the humble—which reveals a deeper truth about His character. Furthermore, the verse uses **Anthropomorphism** in attributing "respect" and "knowing afar off" to God, describing His divine actions in human terms to make His disposition relatable. "Knoweth afar off" is a powerful **Idiom** or **Metaphor** for relational distance and disapproval, as God's omniscience means He knows all things intimately; thus, this phrase signifies a deliberate lack of favorable communion rather than a lack of information. The entire verse functions as a concise **Proverbial Statement**, offering a timeless truth about divine justice and the spiritual consequences of humility versus pride.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 138:6 articulates a cornerstone biblical truth: God's character is defined by both transcendence and immanence, yet His favor is profoundly influenced by the posture of the human heart. His "highness" speaks to His absolute sovereignty and holiness, while His "respect" for the lowly demonstrates His compassionate condescension, a willingness to draw near to the contrite. This divine preference for humility and opposition to pride is not merely a moral guideline but a fundamental aspect of His being, shaping His interactions with humanity. It reveals a God who values dependence, brokenness, and a spirit of teachability over self-sufficiency and arrogance, establishing a clear path for experiencing His grace and intimate presence.

* [Isaiah 57:15](/isaiah/57-15 "Isaiah 57:15 - God Dwells with the Contrite")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Resists the Proud")
* [1 Peter 5:5](/1_peter/5-5 "1 Peter 5:5 - Humility and Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 138:6 serves as a profound mirror for self-examination, urging us to consider the posture of our hearts before God. It offers immense comfort to those who feel insignificant, overlooked, or burdened by their weaknesses, assuring them that the Almighty God, who governs the cosmos, sees them, cares for them, and draws near to them. This truth should inspire a deep sense of security and belonging for the humble. Conversely, it stands as a stark warning against the insidious nature of pride—whether intellectual, spiritual, or social—which erects a barrier between the individual and God's intimate favor. To experience God's nearness, His grace, and His active involvement in our lives, we are called to cultivate a spirit of humility, recognizing our utter dependence on Him and submitting our wills to His. This means acknowledging our limitations, confessing our sins, and seeking His wisdom rather than relying on our own understanding or achievements.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might pride subtly manifest, hindering my intimacy with God?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a spirit of humility in my daily interactions and spiritual walk?**
* **What does it mean for me personally that the "high" LORD "respects" the "lowly"? How does this truth encourage me?**
* **If God knows the proud "afar off," what practical steps can I take to ensure my heart is drawing near to Him, not pushing Him away?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean that "the LORD be high"?**
Answer: This phrase emphasizes God's transcendence and supreme majesty. It means that the LORD is exalted above all creation, possessing infinite power, knowledge, and sovereignty. He is the ultimate authority, dwelling in a realm of glory far beyond human comprehension. This "highness" underscores His unchallengeable position as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, setting Him apart from all earthly rulers and created beings. It highlights His divine otherness and holiness.

**How can God be "high" yet "have respect unto the lowly"? Isn't that a contradiction?**
Answer: This is not a contradiction but a profound paradox that reveals the unique nature of God. While God is indeed infinitely "high" in His majesty and sovereignty, His character is also defined by immeasurable love, compassion, and humility. His "respect" for the lowly means He actively turns His gaze towards them, showing them favor, care, and intimate knowledge. This demonstrates His willingness to condescend, to humble Himself, and to draw near to those who are humble in spirit, meek, or afflicted. It's a testament to His grace, showing that His greatness is not aloof but intimately concerned with the heart posture of His creatures, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 66:2](/isaiah/66-2 "Isaiah 66:2 - God's regard for the humble").

**What does "the proud he knoweth afar off" imply about God's relationship with the proud?**
Answer: This phrase does not mean God lacks knowledge of the proud, as He is omniscient and knows all things intimately (e.g., [Psalms 139:2](/psalms/139-2 "Psalm 139:2 - God's Omniscience")). Instead, "knoweth afar off" implies a relational distance and a lack of intimate, favorable fellowship. It signifies that God observes the proud from a position of separation, without approval or close communion. It suggests a discerning, perhaps even judgmental, knowledge of their ways, but not a knowledge that draws them into His favor or presence. This contrasts sharply with His intimate "respect" for the lowly, indicating His active opposition to arrogance and self-sufficiency, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 3:34](/proverbs/3-34 "Proverbs 3:34 - God scorns the scornful").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 138:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "LORD who is high" yet "has respect unto the lowly" perfectly describes the incarnation of God in Christ. Though He was "in the form of God" and "did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped," Jesus "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humiliation")). He consistently identified with the lowly, the poor in spirit, the meek, and the afflicted, declaring them "blessed" ([Matthew 5:3-5](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3-5 - The Beatitudes")). Furthermore, Jesus Himself perfectly embodied humility, becoming obedient even "to the point of death, even death on a cross" ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience")). In His life, He consistently resisted the proud and self-righteous, exposing their hypocrisy (e.g., [Matthew 23](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")), while extending grace and intimacy to the humble and repentant (e.g., the tax collector in [Luke 18:9-14](/luke/18-9 "Luke 18:9-14 - Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector")). Through His ultimate act of humility on the cross, He became the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, making a way for all who humble themselves to draw near to the high God and receive His respect and favor. His resurrection and exaltation to the right hand of God demonstrate that true exaltation comes through profound humility, fulfilling the promise that "whoever humbles himself will be exalted" ([Luke 14:11](/luke/14-11 "Luke 14:11 - Humility Leads to Exaltation")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 113:5

Who [is] like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,

Psalms 113:6

Who humbleth [himself] to behold [the things that are] in heaven, and in the earth!

1 Samuel 2:7

The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.

1 Samuel 2:8

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: for the pillars of the earth [are] the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.

Isaiah 57:15

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

Proverbs 3:34

Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.

James 4:6

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.