Psalms 104:13

Authorized King James Version

He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מַשְׁקֶ֣ה

H8248

He watereth

to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to

הָ֭רִים

H2022

the hills

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

מֵעֲלִיּוֹתָ֑יו

H5944

from his chambers

something lofty, i.e., a stair-way; also a second-story room (or even one on the roof); figuratively, the sky

מִפְּרִ֥י

H6529

with the fruit

fruit (literally or figuratively)

מַ֝עֲשֶׂ֗יךָ

H4639

of thy works

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

תִּשְׂבַּ֥ע

H7646

is satisfied

to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

הָאָֽרֶץ׃

H776

the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?