Psalms 104:11
They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst.
Original Language Analysis
יַ֭שְׁקוּ
They give drink
H8248
יַ֭שְׁקוּ
They give drink
Strong's:
H8248
Word #:
1 of 7
to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
חַיְת֣וֹ
to every beast
H2416
חַיְת֣וֹ
to every beast
Strong's:
H2416
Word #:
3 of 7
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
Historical Context
Wild donkeys (onagers) inhabited desert regions, representing untamable wilderness. That God provides for even these remote creatures emphasized His comprehensive care for all creation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's care for wild animals inform Christian environmental ethics and stewardship?
- What does God's provision for 'useless' wild creatures reveal about His character?
Analysis & Commentary
Springs give drink to 'every beast of the field,' and wild donkeys (pere'im) quench their thirst. God's care extends to wild animals, not merely domesticated ones useful to humans. Even the wild donkey, symbol of untamed creation, receives divine provision. This demonstrates God's goodness extends beyond utilitarian concerns. Christ referenced God feeding ravens (Luke 12:24), making the same point. If God cares for wild animals, how much more for humans made in His image? This grounds Christian environmental stewardship in God's own care for creation.