Psalm 111 — The Greatness of God's Works
Psalm 111 is a hymn of praise celebrating God's wonderful works, justice, and the gift of wisdom to those who honor Him.
1Praise the LORD!*Hebrew: יה Yah. Psalm 111 is an acrostic poem, with each verse after the initial “Praise the LORD!” starting with a letter of the alphabet (ordered from Alef to Tav).
2The LORD’s works are great,
3His work is honor and majesty.
4He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered.
5He has given food to those who fear him.
6He has shown his people the power of his works,
7The works of his hands are truth and justice.
8They are established forever and ever.
9He has sent redemption to his people.
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Psalm 111:2
“The LORD’s works are great, studied by all those who have pleasure in them.”
This verse emphasizes the value of observing and reflecting on God's actions in the world.
Psalm 111:10
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding.”
This is a foundational biblical proverb linking reverence for God with true intellectual and moral insight.
Chapter Summary
Psalm 111 is an acrostic poem where each line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The psalmist begins with a call to praise the Lord with a whole heart in the company of the upright. The text emphasizes that God's works are great and studied by those who delight in them. His deeds are described as honorable, majestic, and righteous. The psalm highlights God's provision of food for those who fear Him and His faithfulness to His covenant. It notes that His works are characterized by truth and justice, standing firm forever. The chapter concludes by mentioning the redemption God sent to His people and declaring that the fear of the Lord is the true beginning of wisdom, leading to a good understanding for all who follow His precepts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Psalm 111 is an acrostic poem, meaning each phrase or verse starts with a subsequent letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This structure was often used in ancient Hebrew poetry to aid in memorization and to signify completeness.
In the context of Psalm 111, the fear of the Lord refers to a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God's power and works. The text suggests that this attitude is the necessary starting point for gaining true wisdom and understanding.
The psalm describes God as a provider who gives food to those who fear Him and remembers His covenant forever. It also highlights that He has sent redemption to His people and established His precepts as trustworthy and eternal.
Study Note
Psalm 111 is a perfect acrostic where every half-verse begins with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet from Aleph to Tav.
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