Psalms 112

Psalm 112 extols the blessedness of the man who fears the LORD and delights greatly in His commandments. Such a righteous individual is promised prosperity, a mighty lineage, and light in darkness. He is characterized by grace, compassion, and generosity, remaining steadfast and trusting in the LORD. His righteousness endures forever, and his memory is everlasting, while the wicked ultimately perish.

Psalm 112 opens by declaring the blessedness of the man who reveres the LORD and finds great joy in His statutes. This individual's descendants are promised strength and blessing upon the earth, and his household will be characterized by wealth and enduring righteousness. He serves as a source of light in times of adversity, demonstrating grace, compassion, and uprightness. Such a good man is known for his generosity, lending to others, and managing his affairs with prudence. He remains unshaken and is assured of everlasting remembrance, his heart fixed in trust upon the LORD, unafraid of ill tidings. His benevolence extends to the poor, and his righteousness is perpetual, leading to his exaltation with honor. In stark contrast, the wicked observe his prosperity with grief, gnashing their teeth, and their own desires ultimately come to naught.

Psalm 112 opens with an affirmation of praise to the LORD, immediately declaring the blessed state of the man who fears Him and finds profound delight in His commandments. This reverence and obedience are presented as the foundation for a life of divine favor. The psalm promises that the offspring of such an upright individual shall be mighty and blessed upon the earth, ensuring a legacy of strength and divine approval. Material prosperity is also a hallmark of this blessedness, with wealth and riches dwelling in his house, yet these are coupled with an enduring righteousness that transcends temporal gains. In moments of darkness and adversity, light arises for the upright, for he embodies graciousness, compassion, and an inherent righteousness. The good man is further characterized by his active benevolence, showing favour, lending to those in need, and guiding his personal and financial affairs with wisdom and discretion. He is portrayed as an unshakeable figure, secure in his position, and assured of an everlasting remembrance among men. His heart is steadfast and fixed, trusting implicitly in the LORD, rendering him unafraid of any evil tidings or adversities that may arise. This unwavering confidence allows him to face challenges without fear, anticipating the fulfillment of his desires over his adversaries. His generosity is emphasized again, as he disperses his wealth and gives freely to the poor, a testament to his enduring righteousness. Consequently, his "horn," a symbol of strength and dignity, shall be exalted with honor. The psalm concludes by contrasting the fate of the righteous with that of the wicked, who shall witness the prosperity of the upright with envy and grief. They will gnash their teeth in frustration and ultimately melt away, for their own desires and schemes are destined to perish.