Psalms 104:8
They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them.
Original Language Analysis
יַעֲל֣וּ
They go up
H5927
יַעֲל֣וּ
They go up
Strong's:
H5927
Word #:
1 of 9
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
הָ֭רִים
by the mountains
H2022
הָ֭רִים
by the mountains
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
2 of 9
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
יֵרְד֣וּ
they go down
H3381
יֵרְד֣וּ
they go down
Strong's:
H3381
Word #:
3 of 9
to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
בְקָע֑וֹת
by the valleys
H1237
בְקָע֑וֹת
by the valleys
Strong's:
H1237
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, a split, i.e., a wide level valley between mountains
מְ֝ק֗וֹם
unto the place
H4725
מְ֝ק֗וֹם
unto the place
Strong's:
H4725
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
Historical Context
The water cycle—evaporation, rain, rivers flowing to seas—was partially understood in ancient times. This verse describes observable natural processes while attributing them to God's sovereign design and command.
Questions for Reflection
- How does observing nature's intricate design strengthen your faith in God's providential care?
- What 'natural' processes in your life do you need to recognize as God's sovereign arrangement?
Analysis & Commentary
Waters flowing down from mountains to valleys demonstrate God's intentional geographic design. 'They go up...they go down' shows divine choreography of earth's topography. God didn't merely create but arranged creation purposefully. Each feature serves His design. This verse transitions from watery chaos to ordered landscape, showing God's providence in providing for creation. Christ's care for creation (Matt 6:26-30) reflects this same detailed providence. Reformed theology sees God's hand in every natural process.