Psalm 112 Study Notes

112:1-10 This psalm contains wisdom features and vocabulary, and it shares language and acrostic form with Ps 111. It applies the theology expressed there.

112:1 The one who fears the Lord honors, trusts, worships, and obeys him.

112:2 Descendants (lit “seed”) will serve as a conduit of the Lord’s strength—not powerful in themselves, but through God’s blessing.

112:3 Prosperity is used for good in a home filled with righteousness.

112:4 On light, see notes at 18:28-29; 27:1.

112:5 The upright mirror the character of the Lord. Conducts (Hb kul) expresses the idea of consistent behavior. The upright do not commit usury or charge interest (Lv 25:35-36; Dt 15:7-11).

112:6 Just as the foundations of the world will not be shaken (82:5; 96:10; 99:1; 104:5), so nothing will ever make the righteous person slip or fall.

112:7 This verse does not promise only good news. It rather recommends trust in the Lord as an antidote to fear.

112:8 Trust in the Lord prevents fear (vv. 1,7). The assured . . . heart conveys the idea of support (111:8).

112:9 The righteousness of the generous person endures, just as God’s instructions (111:8) and praise (111:10) last forever. The horn is symbolic of power (see notes at 18:1-2; 89:15-17).

112:10 Those who are evil will witness the elevation of the righteous. The term angry can be rendered “confused” or “troubled” (Hb qa‘as). Those who desire anything other than God will ultimately be frustrated.