Psalms 104:6

Authorized King James Version

Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תְּ֭הוֹם
it with the deep
an abyss (as a surging mass of water), especially the deep (the main sea or the subterranean watersupply)
#2
כַּלְּב֣וּשׁ
as with a garment
a garment (literally or figuratively); by implication (euphemistically) a wife
#3
כִּסִּית֑וֹ
Thou coveredst
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הָ֝רִ֗ים
above the mountains
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#6
יַ֖עַמְדוּ
stood
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#7
מָֽיִם׃
the waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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