Psalms 104:24

O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מָֽה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

רַבּ֬וּ

H7231

how manifold

properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad

מַעֲשֶׂ֨יךָ׀

H4639

are thy works

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

יְֽהוָ֗ה

H3068

O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כֻּ֭לָּם

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בְּחָכְמָ֣ה

H2451

in wisdom

wisdom (in a good sense)

עָשִׂ֑יתָ

H6213

hast thou made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מָלְאָ֥ה

H4390

is full

to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)

הָ֝אָ֗רֶץ

H776

them all the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

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קִנְיָנֶֽךָ׃

H7075

of thy riches

creation, i.e., (concretely) creatures; also acquisition, purchase, wealth

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of wisdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about wisdom, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes wisdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on wisdom address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?