Psalms 75:6
Psalms 75:6 in Multiple Translations
For exaltation comes neither from east nor west, nor out of the desert,
For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
For neither from the east, nor from the west, Nor yet from the south, cometh lifting up.
For honour does not come from the east, or from the west, or uplifting from the south;
For no one, from the east to the west, or from the wilderness, should think so highly of themselves.
For to come to preferment is neither from the East, nor from the West, nor from the South,
For not from the east, or from the west, Nor from the wilderness — [is] elevation.
For neither from the east, nor from the west, nor yet from the south, comes exaltation.
For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
All the foolish of heart were troubled. They have slept their sleep; and all the men of riches have found nothing in their hands.
The one who judges people does not come from the east or from the west, and he does not come from the desert.
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 75:6
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 75:6 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
אַל
תָּרִ֣ימוּ
לַ/מָּר֣וֹם
קַרְנְ/כֶ֑ם
תְּדַבְּר֖וּ
בְ/צַוָּ֣אר
עָתָֽק
אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Part
תָּרִ֣ימוּ
rûwm
H7311
to exalt
V-Hiphil-Juss-2mp
לַ/מָּר֣וֹם
mârôwm
H4791
height
Prep | N-ms
קַרְנְ/כֶ֑ם
qeren
H7161
horn
N-cs | Suff
תְּדַבְּר֖וּ
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Imperf-2mp
בְ/צַוָּ֣אר
tsavvâʼr
H6677
neck
Prep | N-ms
עָתָֽק
ʻâthâq
H6277
arrogant
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 75:6
אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
תָּרִ֣ימוּ
rûwm
H7311
"to exalt"
V-Hiphil-Juss-2mp
This verb can mean to lift something or someone up, like a parent lifting a child, or to exalt oneself in pride. In the Bible, it's used to describe God lifting up the humble and bringing down the proud.
Definition: 1) to rise, rise up, be high, be lofty, be exalted 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be high, be set on high 1a2) to be raised, be uplifted, be exalted 1a3) to be lifted, rise 1b) (Polel) 1b1) to raise or rear (children), cause to grow up 1b2) to lift up, raise, exalt 1b3) to exalt, extol 1c) (Polal) to be lifted up 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to raise, lift, lift up, take up, set up, erect, exalt, set on high 1d2) to lift up (and take away), remove 1d3) to lift off and present, contribute, offer, contribute 1e) (Hophal) to be taken off, be abolished 1f) (Hithpolel) to exalt oneself, magnify oneself Aramaic equivalent: rum (רוּם "to rise" H7313)
Usage: Occurs in 184 OT verses. KJV: bring up, exalt (self), extol, give, go up, haughty, heave (up), (be, lift up on, make on, set up on, too) high(-er, one), hold up, levy, lift(-er) up, (be) lofty, ([idiom] a-) loud, mount up, offer (up), [phrase] presumptuously, (be) promote(-ion), proud, set up, tall(-er), take (away, off, up), breed worms. See also: Genesis 7:17; Psalms 46:11; Psalms 3:4.
לַ/מָּר֣וֹם
mârôwm
H4791
"height"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to a high or elevated place, either physically or figuratively. It can describe a location, such as a mountain, or a state of being, like pride or haughtiness. It is used in various books of the Bible.
Definition: 1) height 1a) height, elevation, elevated place 1a1) in a high place (adv) 1b) height 1c) proudly (adv) 1d) of nobles (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: (far) above, dignity, haughty, height, (most, on) high (one, place), loftily, upward. See also: Judges 5:18; Isaiah 22:16; Psalms 7:8.
קַרְנְ/כֶ֑ם
qeren
H7161
"horn"
N-cs | Suff
In the Bible, this word means a horn or a corner, and can also refer to power or a mountain peak. It's used to describe a place called Karnaim, which was conquered by Israel. The KJV translation uses phrases like 'hill' or 'horn' to convey the idea.
Definition: 1) horn 1a) horn 1b) of strength (fig) 1c) flask (container for oil) 1d) horn (as musical instrument) 1e) horn (of horn-like projections on the altar) 1f) of rays of light 1g) hill Aramaic equivalent: qe.ren (קֶ֫רֶן "horn" H7162)
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] hill, horn. See also: Genesis 22:13; Psalms 75:5; Psalms 18:3.
תְּדַבְּר֖וּ
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Imperf-2mp
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
בְ/צַוָּ֣אר
tsavvâʼr
H6677
"neck"
Prep | N-ms
This term describes a necklace or ornament worn around the neck, signifying beauty and status, as in Ezekiel 23:25. It represents the adornment of God's people.
Definition: 1) neck, back of neck 1a) neck, back of neck (of man) 1b) neck (of animals) Aramaic equivalent: tsav.var (צַוַּאר "neck" H6676)
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: neck. See also: Genesis 27:16; Song of Solomon 7:5; Psalms 75:6.
עָתָֽק
ʻâthâq
H6277
"arrogant"
N-ms
This word means being arrogant or bold, often in a negative way. It describes someone who speaks or acts with impudence, being stiff or unyielding in their attitude.
Definition: 1) forward, bold, arrogant 1a) of speech
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: arrogancy, grievous (hard) things, stiff. See also: 1 Samuel 2:3; Psalms 75:6; Psalms 31:19.
Study Notes — Psalms 75:6
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 75:6 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 75:6
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 75:6
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
- Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 75:6
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 75:6
- Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
- Sermons on Psalms 75:6
Context — God’s Righteous Judgment
4I say to the proud, ‘Do not boast,’ and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn.
5Do not lift up your horn against heaven or speak with an outstretched neck.’”
6For exaltation comes neither from east nor west, nor out of the desert,
7but it is God who judges; He brings down one and exalts another. 8For a cup is in the hand of the LORD, full of foaming wine mixed with spices. He pours from His cup, and all the wicked of the earth drink it down to the dregs.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 3:3 | But You, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head. |
Psalms 75:6 Summary
This verse means that true honor and recognition do not come from people or places, but from God. It's saying that we shouldn't look to the world for our sense of worth or importance, but instead look to God, who is the one who truly lifts us up or brings us down, as seen in Psalms 75:7. This is similar to what is written in Proverbs 22:4, which says that humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life. By remembering this, we can stay humble and focused on what truly matters, rather than seeking earthly praise or recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that exaltation comes neither from east nor west?
This phrase means that true promotion and honor do not come from human sources or earthly directions, but rather from God alone, as seen in Psalms 75:7, where it says God brings down one and exalts another, similar to what is written in Proverbs 29:23, which reminds us that a man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.
Is the desert mentioned in this verse symbolic of something?
The desert in this context likely represents a place of isolation or desolation, emphasizing that even in the most barren or unlikely of places, true exaltation does not originate, pointing us to the truth found in Isaiah 40:3-4, which tells us that every valley shall be exalted and every mountain made low, preparing the way for the Lord.
How does this verse relate to our everyday lives?
This verse reminds us that our successes and failures are not solely the result of our own efforts or circumstances, but are ultimately in God's hands, as stated in Romans 9:21, where it is written that the potter has power over the clay, and in Jeremiah 18:6, which says that God is the one who shapes and molds us like a potter shapes clay.
What is the main point of Psalms 75:6?
The main point of this verse is that true exaltation, or promotion, comes from God alone, and not from any human source or earthly direction, reinforcing the idea that our trust and focus should be on Him, as encouraged in Psalms 37:3-7, which reminds us to trust in the Lord and do good, and He will give us the desires of our heart.
Reflection Questions
- In what ways do I seek exaltation or recognition from earthly sources, and how can I shift my focus to seeking God's approval alone?
- How does the truth that exaltation comes from God alone impact my perspective on my current circumstances, whether they be struggles or successes?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to trust God for promotion or recognition, rather than relying on my own efforts or human connections?
- In what ways can I humble myself and acknowledge God as the source of all true exaltation, as encouraged in James 4:10, which tells us to humble ourselves before the Lord and He will lift us up?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 75:6
For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 75:6
I said unto the fools, Deal not foolishly: and to the wicked, Lift not up the horn: -In reliance on God's promise (Psalms 75:2-3), Israel warns the haughty foe no more to lift up the neck in pride,
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
For though you envy and oppose my advancement, because I was but a poor shepherd, and of a mean family; yet you ought to know and consider what is notorious and visible in the world, that the dignities and sceptres of the world are not always disposed according to human expectations and probabilities, but by God’ s sovereign will and providence, as it follows. It is true, men that expect preferment have their eyes fixed upon the great persons of the world, who are thought to have the ‘ disposition of them in their hands, and according to their several inclinations or interests; some look eastward, others westward, and others southward, expecting assistance from some of these quarters; but all in vain.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
Psalms 75:6 For promotion [cometh] neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.Ver. 6. For promotion cometh neither from the east] Dignitatis nullum est emporium. Ambitionists used to look this way and that way how to advance themselves, but all in vain. Hispanis monarchia Catholica debetur divinitus, sed in Utopia, saith one. Nor from the south] Where the warm sunshine is.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
(6) For promotion . . .—The Authorised Version has here rightly set aside the pointing of the text, which, as the LXX. and Vulg., reads— “For not from the east, nor from the west, Nor from the wilderness of mountains,” a sentence which has no conclusion. The recurrence also of parts of the verb “to lift up” in Psalms 75:4-5; Psalms 75:7, makes in favour of taking harîm as part of the same verb here, instead of as a noun, “mountains.” That the word midbar (wilderness) might be used for “south,” receives support from Acts 8:26. Ewald thinks the four points of the compass should be completed by inserting a conjunction, and taking the “desert” and “mountains” to represent respectively the south and north. He then supplies the conclusion of the sentence from the following verse:— “For neither from east nor west, Neither from desert nor mountains, Cometh judgment; but God is Judge.” This agrees with 1 Samuel 2:10; but it is hardly needful to expect such scientific accuracy as to the points of the compass in Hebrew poetry.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
Verse 6. For promotion cometh neither from the east, c.] As if the Lord had said, speaking to the Babylonians, None of all the surrounding powers shall be able to help you none shall pluck you out of my hand. I am the Judge: I will pull you down, and set my afflicted people up, Psalms 75:7. Calmet has observed that the Babylonians had Media, Armenia, and Mesopotamia on the EAST; and thence came Darius the Mede: that it had Arabia, Phoenicia, and Egypt on the WEST; thence came Cyrus, who overthrew the empire of the Chaldeans. And by the mountains of the desert, מדבר הרים midbar harim, which we translate SOUTH, Persia, may be meant; which government was established on the ruins of the Babylonish empire. No help came from any of those powers to the sinful Babylonians; they were obliged to drink the cup of the red wine of God's judgment, even to the very dregs. They were to receive no other punishment; this one was to annihilate them as a people for ever.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 75:6
6–8. The reason for this warning. Israel looks to God alone for help, and He is the supreme arbiter of human destinies.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 75:6
For promotion - The word used here in the original, and rendered “promotion” - הרים hariym - is susceptible of two quite different significations.
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 75:6
6. For promotion—Same word as “lift,” in Psalms 75:4-5. He warns his enemy not to “lift” up himself in pride and scorn, for the true lifting up, or “promotion,” is from God only. Psalms 75:7.
Sermons on Psalms 75:6
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Walking With the Wind by Manley Beasley | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of actively seeking and accepting God's plan for our lives. He uses the story of Gideon and the 300 men to illustrate how God |
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Influence of a Godly Woman by Stephen Olford | In this video, Joyce shares her personal testimony of how she came to know Jesus Christ and the impact it had on her life. She explains how she learned about the special quality an |
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God Lifts Up Our Head by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility, letting God exalt individuals rather than seeking self-promotion. It touches on the need for genuine ministry, avoiding counterfe |
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Oliver Cromwell by Ian Paisley | Ian Paisley preaches about the Divine intervention in nations' history, particularly during crises when God's sovereignty is concealed but later manifested beyond natural explanati |
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The Importance of Total Obedience by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen preaches about the rise and fall of King Saul, emphasizing how Saul's humility turned into pride as he allowed his own reasoning and the opinions of others to influence |
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(Gaining God's Approval) 7. the Testing of David by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes the testing of David as a man after God's own heart, highlighting his faithfulness in mundane tasks, concern for God's glory, and refusal to take revenge agai |
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Psalm 75 by Henry Law | Henry Law preaches on the importance of giving thanks to God for His wondrous works, emphasizing that our souls are robbed of delight when we do not engage in this joyful exercise. |