Bible Strands
Psalms 12:5
“For the cause of the oppressed and for the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says the LORD. “I will bring safety to him who yearns.”
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The LORD speaks in direct response to the arrogant self-exaltation of the wicked recorded in the preceding verse. He addresses this declaration at a moment when the oppressed and needy are enduring their suffering.
The words — The term עַתָּה ('a.Tah) means "now," marking a decisive shift in divine action. It is paired with אָקוּם ('A.kum), literally "I will arise," to declare immediate intervention.
The thread — The theme of divine rescue for the afflicted echoes in Psalms 34:6, where the poor cry out and the LORD saves them. It also parallels Proverbs 14:31, which links the treatment of the needy to honoring God.
Why it lands — The verse demands recognition that human arrogance cannot override divine justice. It requires readers to trust that God actively intervenes on behalf of the vulnerable rather than remaining distant.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.
Cross-references
- Psalms 34:6 This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles.
- Proverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.
- James 5:4 Look, the wages you withheld from the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts.
- Psalms 146:7 He executes justice for the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free,
- Isaiah 33:10 “Now I will arise,” says the LORD. “Now I will lift Myself up. Now I will be exalted.
- Micah 7:8 Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will arise; though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light.
- Exodus 2:23 After a long time, the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned and cried out under their burden of slavery, and their cry for deliverance from bondage ascended to God.
- Job 5:15 He saves the needy from the sword in their mouth and from the clutches of the powerful.
- Job 5:21 You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and will not fear havoc when it comes.
- Psalms 10:12 Arise, O LORD! Lift up Your hand, O God! Do not forget the helpless.