Psalms 113:9
He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD.
Psalms 113:9
Psalm 113:9 centers on the blessing of a barren woman—“He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children.” In biblical times, childbearing was both a personal aim and a social standing indicator. Childlessness could bring social stigma and economic insecurity. The psalmist frames God as the one who reverses human statistics and provides joy where there was sorrow. The phrase “to keep house” reflects a dignified, purposeful homemaking role, now blessed with fertility and the blessing of children. This verse is deeply tethered to covenant faithfulness: offspring were a key sign of God’s blessing on a nation (Genesis 12; 15). Yet the verse also points to God as source of life and joy, not human effort. The liturgical context invites communal celebration; the people sing of God’s compassionate acts even into personal sorrow.
Theologically, this verse affirms God’s providence and sovereignty over life’s openings and closures. It speaks to God’s intimate involvement in individual human stories within the larger redemptive narrative. The motif of barrenness transforming into joy prefigures the New Testament emphasis on God’s bringing life where there is otherwise no possibility—culminating in the birth narratives and, ultimately, new life through Christ. It also tempers any simplistic causation: fertility is a gift of grace, not a guarantee of worthiness. The verse thus invites trust in God’s timing and purposes, even when human calendars fail.
For today, the verse becomes a companion for those walking with infertility or longing for family. It offers consolation that God sees true value in every life and can bring joy in unexpected seasons. Communities can support families facing infertility with practical help, counseling, and prayer. The verse also broadens the definition of “joyful mother” to include adoptive or serving roles: mentors, foster parents, or caregivers who nurture children in need. It motivates churches to cultivate welcoming spaces for families of all kinds and to celebrate life’s blessings in diverse forms. Practically, practice gratitude for the children and families around you, and extend encouragement to those awaiting their own harvest of joy.
Cross-References: Genesis 25:21; Isaiah 54:1; Luke 1:36–45; Romans 15:13; Psalm 127:3