Translations
Modern
Though the LORD is on high, He attends to the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.
Traditional
Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.
Literal
For YHWH is on high, and the lowly one He sees, and the haughty He knows from afar.
Latin
…quoniam excelsus Dominus, et humilia respicit, et alta a longe cognoscit.
Original
Hebrew
English
Though the LORD is on high, He attends to the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.
Notes
God is holy and great, far beyond human understanding (see Psalms 99:2; 113:4; Isaiah 6:1; 57:15).
The exalted God cares for the humble (Psalm 138:6), especially his servant, the psalmist (138:7–8).
In this wisdom psalm, the Lord is presented as the God of gods. He rescued his people and has a perfect plan for them as individuals. The nations will join Israel in glorifying God.
In this final group of psalms of David, psalms of praise and wisdom (Psalms 138–139, 145) form a frame around five psalms of lament (Psalms 140–144).
Theme notes and profiles
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Music Psalms, Book of
Topics
Humility: General Scriptures Concerning Humility: The Who Have: Regarded by God Overcome Pride: General Scriptures Concerning