Psalms 104:5

Authorized King James Version

Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָֽסַד

H3245

Who laid

to set (literally or figuratively); intensively, to found; reflexively, to sit down together, i.e., settle, consult

אֶ֭רֶץ

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

מְכוֹנֶ֑יהָ

H4349

the foundations

properly, a fixture, i.e., a basis; generally a place, especially as an abode

בַּל

H1077

properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest

תִּ֝מּ֗וֹט

H4131

that it should not be removed

to waver; by implication, to slip, shake, fall

עוֹלָ֥ם

H5769

for ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

וָעֶֽד׃

H5703

properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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 understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?