Drawing Close

Kapital 131 begins with the words “Shir HaMaalos L’Dovid…” and is the and is the twelfth of the fifteen Shir HaMaalos, which Rashi tells us earlier in Tehillim were written by Dovid Hamelech for the Leviim to sing while standing upon the Ma’alos in the Mikdash. This Perek is also notable as it is one of the shortest in all of Sefer Tehillim, with just three Pessukim, which can all be understood as one continuous message.

Dovid begins the Mizmor by making a statement about himself: “Hashem Lo Gavah Libi V’Lo Romu Einai”. Dovid Hamelech tells Hashem that, despite his position, he did not behave with superiority. As Rashi says, “Lo Asisi Gedolos Taanugos Binyanim V’Netios…” Dovid did not construct elaborate palaces and gardens to display his riches, as others in his shoes may have. In addition, Dovid says “V’Lo Halachti B’Gedolos U’ViNifla’os MiMeni”, words which Radak explains speak about his growth in Ruchnias. Dovid Hamelech did not pursue matters in Chachmas Elokus that were beyond him, instead advancing methodically and steadily to achieve greater heights.

Rather than acting in these ways, the next Passuk continues, “Shavisis V’Domamti Nafshi K’Gamal Alei Imo…”, Dovid saw himself as a baby who relies on the sustenance of his mother.