Who is Like the Lord? A Reflection on Psalm 113:5

Psalm 113:5 poses a powerful rhetorical question: “Who is like the LORD our God, the One enthroned on high?” This verse, nestled within a hymn of praise, invites us to contemplate the unique and unparalleled nature of God. The psalmist uses vivid imagery to highlight God’s transcendence and immanence, establishing a stark contrast between the Almighty and all other powers. The question isn’t a genuine inquiry seeking an answer; rather, it’s an affirmation of God’s incomparable greatness. It’s a declaration that no other deity, no earthly ruler, no force of nature can compare to the God of Israel.

The phrase “enthroned on high” speaks to God’s sovereignty and absolute authority. He reigns supreme over all creation, his power and wisdom extending beyond human comprehension. Yet, the psalm also emphasizes God’s intimate involvement with humanity. He “looks far down” from his heavenly throne, not with detachment, but with active concern for the humble and the needy. This seemingly paradoxical combination of transcendence and immanence is central to the understanding of God in the Hebrew Bible. He is both the all-powerful Creator of the universe and the compassionate God who cares for the marginalized.

The rhetorical question in verse 5 serves to emphasize this unique duality. By asking “Who is like the LORD?”, the psalmist challenges the listener to consider the attributes of other gods and compare them to the God of Israel. The gods of neighboring nations were often associated with specific natural phenomena or human endeavors. They were limited in their power and scope, often subject to the whims of fate or human manipulation. In contrast, the LORD is presented as the ultimate source of power and authority, unbound by any limitations. He is the one who establishes kings and raises the poor, demonstrating his active involvement in the affairs of both the powerful and the weak.

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The question in Psalm 113:5 is not merely an invitation to intellectual assent but a call to worship and adoration. Recognizing God’s unique nature should lead to a response of humility, gratitude, and obedience. It is a reminder that true worship involves acknowledging God’s sovereignty and submitting to his will. By declaring that no one is like the LORD, the psalmist sets the stage for a life of devotion and service to the one true God. The verse serves as a cornerstone of faith, reminding believers throughout the ages of the unmatched power, compassion, and faithfulness of the God they serve.