What does Psalms 103:13 mean?

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. Psalms 103:13

Explanation

The verse “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him” from Psalms 103:13 illustrates the compassionate and loving nature of God towards those who revere Him. Literally, the verse compares God’s mercy with that of a father’s pity towards his children. Here, the term “pity” is not to be understood in a negative sense, but rather as a synonym for compassion or mercy. The deeper meaning of this verse is that God understands our weaknesses and frailties, and He cares for us with a deep paternal love, showing mercy and forgiveness.

Historical Context

Psalms 103 is traditionally attributed to King David and is classified as a hymn of praise. It expresses a deep personal worship of God and a reflection on His mercies. The culture at the time was patriarchal, where the father held a significant and revered position in the family, responsible for guidance, protection, and provision. This Psalm was written in a context where familial relationships were fundamental to understanding one’s place in society and in relation to God.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints might interpret this verse in several ways. From a Calvinist perspective, this mercy is an evidence of God’s elective grace towards those predestined to be in a covenant relationship with Him. An Arminian perspective might emphasize the universal love of God to all His children and the choice of humans to fear the Lord and hence receive His mercy. A Catholic viewpoint would regard this as part of the rich mercy God offers, which is also present in the sacraments and through penance.

Practical Applications

This verse can be practically applied to encourage individuals to maintain a reverent relationship with God, knowing that God’s disposition towards them is one of kindness and mercy, not harsh judgment. It can also encourage believers to practice compassion in their own lives, reflecting the paternal characteristics of mercy and pity toward others, particularly those who are spiritually or physically in need.

Cross-References

• Psalm 103:8: “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.”
• Psalm 145:9: “The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.”
• Ephesians 2:4-5: “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)”

Language Study

The key words in the original Hebrew for this verse are:

• “Pitieth” (רַחַם – racham): often translated as “to have compassion,” “to show mercy,” or “to love deeply.”
• “Father” (אָב – av): literally a biological father, but also a metaphor for protector and leader.
• “Children” (בָּנִים – banim): referring to offspring, it symbolizes those who are cared for or instructed.
• “Fear” (יָרֵא – yare): translates to fearing, reverencing, or being in awe of the Lord, implying a deep respect that leads to obedience and worship.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, deities were often associated with parental roles, including figures such as the Sumerian god Enki, who was seen as a fatherly creator god. In the Biblical context, God’s parental role is distinctively compassionate and not merely authoritarian. In other religions like Hinduism, gods such as Brahma are seen as benevolent fatherly figures to creation, exhibiting a similar sense of care.

Scientific Perspectives

From a psychological standpoint, the compassion and pity a father shows to his children and the reverence that children hold towards a parent can reflect the healthy attachment and bonding necessary for psychological well-being. Modern science supports the idea that compassion and strong parental relationships contribute to better emotional health in individuals.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered insights into Psalms 103:13. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the tenderness and intimacy of God’s compassion, interpreting the verse as an assurance of God’s forgiveness and willingness to bear with his people’s infirmities. Charles Spurgeon speaks of the verse in terms of the great tenderness and readiness of God to relieve His children’s miseries. Contemporary commentaries focus on the relationship aspect depicted in the verse, suggesting that the divine-human relationship is one that is deep, caring, and sensitive, reflective of the best of human paternal relationships.