Psalms 104:18
The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.
Original Language Analysis
הָרִ֣ים
hills
H2022
הָרִ֣ים
hills
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
1 of 6
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
סְ֝לָעִ֗ים
and the rocks
H5553
סְ֝לָעִ֗ים
and the rocks
Strong's:
H5553
Word #:
4 of 6
a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)
Cross References
Proverbs 30:26The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;Job 39:1Knowest thou the time when the wild goats of the rock bring forth? or canst thou mark when the hinds do calve?1 Samuel 24:2Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.
Historical Context
Rock badgers/hyraxes inhabit rocky areas in the Middle East, while wild goats navigate steep mountain terrain. These were familiar animals demonstrating God's wisdom in suiting creatures to their environments.
Questions for Reflection
- How does observing the 'fit' between creatures and their habitats strengthen your confidence in God's design for your life?
- What unique 'place' has God designed you to fill in His kingdom purposes?
Analysis & Commentary
High hills are for wild goats (ye'elim), and rocks provide refuge for conies (shaphanim, likely rock badgers/hyraxes). God assigns habitats suiting each creature's needs—sure-footed goats get mountains, rock-dwelling creatures get cliffs. This demonstrates thoughtful design matching form to function. Every creature has its place in God's ordered creation. This ecological wisdom reflects God's intelligence in creation. Christ as Creator (John 1:3) designed these intricate relationships. The Reformed understanding of creation recognizes its coherent order as evidence of intelligent design.