What
is man, that you think of him? What is the son of man, that you care for him? Psalm 8 [5.] For you have made him a little lower than God, and crowned him with glory and honor. You make him ruler over the works of your hands. You have put all things under his feet
Psalm 8:4-6
Psalm 8 [1.] Yahweh, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth,
who has set your glory above the heavens!
From the lips of babes and infants you have established strength,
because of your adversaries, that you might silence the enemy and the avenger.
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have ordained;
what is man, that you think of him?
What is the son of man, that you care for him?
Psalm 8 [5.] For you have made him a little lower than God,[a]
and crowned him with glory and honor.
You make him ruler over the works of your hands.
You have put all things under his feet:
All sheep and cattle,
yes, and the animals of the field,
The birds of the sky, the fish of the sea,
and whatever passes through the paths of the seas.
Yahweh, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Meaning:
- The Insignificance of Humanity:
The psalmist begins with a contemplative question, acknowledging the apparent insignificance of humanity in the vastness of God's creation. The use of the terms "man" and "son of man" emphasizes the universal nature of this inquiry, highlighting the humility of the human condition in comparison to the enormity of the cosmos.
- A Elevated Position:
Despite the perceived insignificance, the psalmist marvels at the elevated status bestowed upon humanity by the Creator. God has made man "a little lower than God," investing humanity with a unique and exalted position within the created order. This divine elevation underscores the intrinsic value placed upon each individual.
- Crowned with Glory and Honor:
The psalmist employs vivid imagery to convey the honor and glory conferred upon humanity by God. This regal imagery paints a picture of humanity adorned with a divine crown, signifying a position of authority and dignity. The bestowed glory and honor elevate human identity beyond the limitations of mortal existence.
Significance and Reflection:
Recognition of Human Dignity: Psalm 8:4-6 calls us to recognize and celebrate the inherent dignity of every individual. In a world often marked by struggles, inequalities, and challenges to human worth, these verses serve as a resounding affirmation of the value God places upon each person.
Responsibility as Stewards: The acknowledgement of humanity's elevated position in creation carries a weighty responsibility. Being crowned with glory and honor implies a call to stewardship. As rulers over the works of God's hands, we are entrusted with the care and responsible management of the earth and its resources (Genesis 1:28).
Connection with Christ: The New Testament resonates with echoes of Psalm 8, particularly in the application to Jesus Christ. In Hebrews 2:6-9, the writer quotes Psalm 8, highlighting the fulfillment of these verses in Jesus, the Son of Man. This connection emphasizes Christ's role as the ultimate fulfillment of humanity's elevated status and authority.
Humility in Majesty: While recognizing our elevated status, these verses inspire a sense of humility. We acknowledge our position as rulers under God's authority, recognizing that our glory and honor are derived from Him. This humility fosters a deeper dependence on God and a posture of gratitude for the privileges bestowed upon us.
Cross References:
Genesis 1:26-27: The concept of humanity being made in the image of God and having dominion over the earth finds its roots in the creation narrative. Psalm 8 echoes and expands upon the themes presented in Genesis, emphasizing the divine intent for humanity's role in the created order.
Hebrews 2:6-9: The New Testament provides a lens through which we see the fulfillment of Psalm 8 in Jesus Christ. Hebrews references Psalm 8 to highlight the exalted position of Jesus, who, as the Son of Man, perfectly embodies the divine intention for humanity's role and authority.
In conclusion, Psalm 8:4-6 beckons us to marvel at the paradox of our existence—insignificant in the scope of creation yet crowned with glory and honor by a loving Creator. As we reflect on these verses, we are invited to recognize the intrinsic value of every human life, embrace our responsibility as stewards of God's creation, and approach our elevated status with humility and gratitude.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible