Question 1

What does “from the rising of the sun unto the going down” mean?

Accepted Answer

This phrase is a simple way of saying “all day long” and also “everywhere.” From where the sun comes up in the east to where it sets in the west, God’s name is to be praised. It shows that praise is not just for one place or one hour in the temple, but for all lands and all times. God is Lord over the whole world, so there is no time or place where he does not deserve thanks, worship, and honor from his servants.

Question 2

Why does this passage repeat the call to praise the Lord?

Accepted Answer

The words “Praise ye the Lord” and “praise the name of the Lord” are repeated to stir sleepy hearts. People often grow dull and forget to thank God, even though they were made to praise him. The repeated call is like a gentle shake, urging God’s servants to wake up to their duty and joy. It reminds them that praising God is not a small side task, but something they should do now and always, together as his people.

Question 3

What does this passage teach about God’s greatness?

Accepted Answer

The passage says the Lord is high above all nations and that his glory is above the heavens. This shows that no ruler, kingdom, or power can match him. He is not limited to one country or one people. Even the vast sky cannot hold his glory. When the question is asked, “Who is like unto the Lord our God?” the answer is clear: no one. God is set apart in power, honor, and wisdom, and he alone rules everything he has made.

Question 4

How can God be both high above and close to the lowly?

Accepted Answer

The passage shows a striking picture. God lives on high, above the nations and the heavens, yet he “humbles himself to behold” what happens in heaven and on earth. He stoops down to look closely, not turning away from the small and weak. Because of this, he raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap. So God is not distant. He is great in majesty and gentle in care at the same time, paying attention to those most easily overlooked.

Question 5

What does it mean that God raises the poor from the dust?

Accepted Answer

“Raises the poor out of the dust” and “lifts the needy out of the dunghill” show how low their condition is. They are like people sitting in dirt and refuse, ignored and despised. God does not leave them there. He lifts them up and sets them with princes, giving them honor they never could have reached on their own. This can happen in real, earthly ways and also points to how God gives dignity and a share in his kingdom to those who come to him with nothing.

Question 6

Why does this passage mention a barren woman becoming a joyful mother?

Accepted Answer

The barren woman pictures someone who has longed for children but has none, a deep sorrow in that culture. The passage says God makes her keep house and become a joyful mother of children. This shows that he can turn shame and sadness into gladness. It reflects real stories where God opened the womb of women who could not have children. It also points to how God can bring new life and joy where people see only emptiness and loss.

Question 7

How does this passage encourage people who feel overlooked or lowly?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who feels poor, cast aside, or forgotten can see themselves in the dust and the dunghill in this song. The words show that God sees such people and cares about their state. He is not impressed by earthly rank, yet he chooses to raise the low and set them in places of honor. This can give comfort to those who feel small in the eyes of the world, reminding them that in God’s eyes they are seen, valued, and may be lifted in ways they do not expect.

Question 8

How should believers respond to the truths in this passage?

Accepted Answer

Believers are called to do what the passage begins and ends with: “Praise ye the Lord.” Knowing that God is both great and kind, they should bless his name at all times, not only in good days but also when life is hard. They can thank him for his rule over the nations, for his care of the poor and needy, and for turning sorrow into joy. This praise is meant to be steady, from this time and forever, in daily life, in gatherings, and in the quiet of the heart.

Psalm 113:1

Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord.

The LORD Exalts the Humble

The LORD Exalts the Humble

Cross References

Psalm 113:1

Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord.

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The LORD Exalts the Humble

The LORD Exalts the Humble

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