Psalms 104:32
He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke.
Original Language Analysis
הַמַּבִּ֣יט
He looketh
H5027
הַמַּבִּ֣יט
He looketh
Strong's:
H5027
Word #:
1 of 6
to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care
יִגַּ֖ע
he toucheth
H5060
יִגַּ֖ע
he toucheth
Strong's:
H5060
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive
Cross References
Psalms 144:5Bow thy heavens, O LORD, and come down: touch the mountains, and they shall smoke.Exodus 19:18And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly.Habakkuk 3:10The mountains saw thee, and they trembled: the overflowing of the water passed by: the deep uttered his voice, and lifted up his hands on high.Psalms 114:7Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob;
Historical Context
Volcanic activity and earthquakes were known in the ancient Near East. Attributing these to God's direct activity (rather than impersonal forces) emphasized His ongoing involvement with creation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does contemplating God's awesome power over creation deepen your worship?
- What balance do you maintain between reverencing God's majesty and approaching Him as Father?
Analysis & Commentary
God looks on the earth and it trembles; He touches mountains and they smoke. This awe-inspiring imagery portrays God's overwhelming power over creation. Mere divine attention causes earth's trembling, and His slightest touch makes mountains smoke (recalling Sinai, Exod 19:18). Creation responds to Creator with appropriate fear. This majesty evokes worship, not terror, for believers who know God's grace. Christ demonstrated similar authority, with nature obeying His commands (Mark 4:39-41). The Reformed emphasis on God's transcendent majesty balances His immanent care.