Psalms 104:10

KJV

¶ He sendeth the springs into the valleys, [which] run among the hills.

KJV (with Strong's)

He sendeth {H7971} the springs {H4599} into the valleys {H5158}, which run {H1980} among the hills {H2022}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You make springs gush forth in the vadis; they flow between the hills,

Berean Standard Bible

He sends forth springs in the valleys; they flow between the mountains.

American Standard Version

He sendeth forth springs into the valleys; They run among the mountains;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 104:10 is a profound poetic declaration of God's active and meticulous provision for His creation, specifically highlighting the life-sustaining gift of fresh water. It vividly portrays the divine hand orchestrating the natural hydrological cycle, sending springs to emerge in low-lying valleys and flow dynamically through the elevated hills. This continuous and pervasive distribution of an essential resource ensures the nourishment and flourishing of all forms of life across the diverse terrains of the earth, thereby underscoring God's sovereign care, intricate design, and ongoing sustenance of the world He created.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 104 is a magnificent hymn of praise, often recognized as a poetic meditation on the Genesis creation narrative, systematically unfolding God's creative acts from the cosmic to the terrestrial. The psalm begins by extolling God's majestic glory and His role in laying the earth's foundations and establishing the boundaries of the waters ([Psalm 104:1-9](/psalms/104-1 "Psalm 104:1-9 - God's Majesty and Creation's Foundations")). Verse 10 specifically marks a pivotal transition, moving from the initial ordering of the primeval waters to the active, ongoing distribution of fresh water across the land. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent descriptions of how this water sustains both flora and fauna ([Psalm 104:11-18](/psalms/104-11 "Psalm 104:11-18 - God's Provision for Life")), detailing the intricate web of life dependent on this divine provision. Therefore, Psalm 104:10 serves as a crucial link, illustrating God's continuous and intimate involvement in maintaining the vibrant life He has brought into existence.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For ancient Israel, an agrarian society heavily reliant on natural water sources, the provision of water was not merely a convenience but an existential necessity. The varied topography of the land of Israel, characterized by its mountains, valleys, and wadis (seasonal riverbeds), made the reliable flow of springs and streams absolutely vital for agriculture, the sustenance of livestock, and human habitation. Drought was a constant and terrifying threat, often interpreted as a sign of divine displeasure or judgment, while abundant water was unequivocally understood as a clear and tangible blessing from God. Consequently, the imagery of springs flowing through valleys and hills would have resonated deeply with the daily experiences and profound existential needs of the original audience, reinforcing their understanding of God as the ultimate and indispensable provider upon whom all life depended.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 104 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Provision**, emphasizing God as the active and intentional agent ("He sendeth") in supplying life-sustaining resources. This is a fundamental declaration of God's ongoing, faithful care for His creation, ensuring that essential elements are perpetually available. Secondly, it underscores the **Sustenance of Life**, as these springs are not merely picturesque but are the very arteries of the land, nourishing vegetation, providing drink for animals, and ultimately supporting human habitation. It speaks to God's meticulous attention to the needs of every living thing within the intricate ecosystem. Finally, the verse testifies to **God's Meticulous Design** and profound wisdom; the natural hydrological cycle, where water flows from its emergence in springs to lower ground in valleys and then permeates the broader landscape, is presented as a perfectly ordered system designed by God to distribute life and blessing efficiently and universally, echoing the themes of divine wisdom seen in [Proverbs 8:27-29](/proverbs/8-27-29 "Proverbs 8:27-29 - Wisdom in Creation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sendeth (Hebrew, _shâlach'_ - H7971):** This verb signifies an active, intentional dispatch or sending forth. It is not a passive or accidental occurrence but a deliberate act of God's will. In the context of creation, it emphasizes God's ongoing, dynamic involvement in the world, not merely as a distant architect but as an engaged sustainer who actively directs the flow of life-giving resources. The choice of this verb highlights divine agency and purpose behind the natural phenomenon.
* **Springs (Hebrew, _maʻyân'_ - H4599):** Referring to a natural fountain or wellspring, _maʻyân_ denotes water that emerges spontaneously and continuously from the earth, often from underground sources. Unlike rain, which is seasonal and intermittent, springs provide a more constant and reliable source of fresh water, symbolizing enduring life and consistent provision. The plural form implied by "springs" suggests an abundance and widespread distribution of these vital sources, testifying to God's generous supply.
* **Valleys (Hebrew, _nachal'_ - H5158) and Hills (Hebrew, _har'_ - H2022):** These terms together describe the comprehensive topography of the land. _Nachal_ refers to a stream or winter torrent, by implication also the valley or wadi through which it runs, typically low-lying areas where water naturally collects and often supports fertile ground. _Har_ refers to a mountain or range of hills, representing higher ground. Their combined mention signifies that God's provision of water is not limited to specific terrains but permeates the entire landscape, ensuring that life is sustained across all diverse elevations and environments, from the lowest depressions to the highest elevations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He sendeth the springs into the valleys":** This opening clause immediately establishes God ("He") as the active subject and the ultimate, intentional source of water. The verb "sendeth" (שָׁלַח, _shâlach_) implies a deliberate, purposeful act of divine agency, emphasizing that the emergence of springs (_maʻyân_) is not merely a natural phenomenon but a direct gift from God. These springs are specifically directed "into the valleys" (_nachal_), which are typically fertile and often inhabited areas, underscoring God's direct and targeted provision for life where it is most needed and can flourish. This highlights God's benevolent design to sustain life at its very foundations.
* **"[which] run among the hills":** This second clause describes the dynamic flow and widespread distribution of the water once it has emerged. The springs, having been sent into the valleys, do not remain stagnant but actively "run" (הָלַךְ, _hâlak_), signifying continuous movement and pervasive influence. The phrase "among the hills" (_harim_) indicates that the water's life-giving influence extends beyond the lowlands, permeating the entire landscape. This suggests a comprehensive and pervasive provision, ensuring that even the higher, often drier, terrains receive the life-giving benefit of God's water, nourishing the diverse ecosystems and supporting life across the full spectrum of the land's topography.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 104:10 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Personification** is subtly present as the springs are depicted as actively "run[ning]," imbuing them with a sense of dynamic movement and purpose, as if participating in God's grand design of sustenance. **Imagery** is central, painting a vivid and concrete picture of water flowing through a diverse landscape, from the emergence of springs in the low-lying valleys to their meandering paths among the elevated hills. This creates a rich sensory experience for the reader, allowing them to visualize the life-giving flow and its pervasive impact. The verse also utilizes **Merism** by mentioning "valleys" and "hills," which together represent the entirety of the terrestrial landscape. This rhetorical device implies that God's provision of water is universal and reaches every part of the earth, from the lowest depressions to the highest elevations, underscoring the boundless and comprehensive nature of divine care.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 104:10 stands as a foundational declaration of God's active and benevolent sovereignty over His creation, particularly His role as the ultimate provider of life-sustaining resources. It illustrates the theological truth that God is not merely a distant creator but an immanent sustainer, intimately involved in the daily functioning of the natural world. This verse connects the physical provision of water to the spiritual reality of God's faithfulness and generosity, reminding humanity of their utter dependence on divine grace for existence. It highlights the intricate wisdom embedded in creation, where every element, even the seemingly simple flow of water, testifies to a divine order designed for flourishing, reflecting God's unwavering commitment to the well-being of all His creatures.

* [Psalm 65:9](/psalms/65-9 "Psalm 65:9 - God Waters the Earth with His Bounty")
* [Isaiah 41:18](/isaiah/41-18 "Isaiah 41:18 - God Provides Water in Deserts")
* [Matthew 6:26](/matthew/6-26 "Matthew 6:26 - God Cares for Birds and Creation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 104:10 invites us to cultivate a profound sense of gratitude and wonder for the ordinary miracles of God's daily provision. In a world where essential resources like clean water are often taken for granted, this verse calls us to pause and recognize the divine hand behind every drop. It challenges us to move beyond a utilitarian view of nature and see it as a continuous testament to God's active care and faithfulness. Understanding God as the one who "sendeth the springs" fosters a deeper trust in His ability to meet our needs, both physical and spiritual, reminding us that His provision is both meticulous and abundant. Furthermore, recognizing these resources as divine gifts entrusted to our care should inspire responsible stewardship of the earth's natural environment, prompting us to protect and preserve what God so generously provides for all life. This verse encourages us to live with an awareness of God's pervasive presence and unfailing provision in every aspect of our lives, cultivating a posture of worship and responsible living.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does recognizing God as the active "sender" of springs change your perspective on everyday natural resources like water?**
* **In what specific ways do you tend to take God's consistent provision for granted, and how can you cultivate a deeper, more active sense of gratitude?**
* **What practical steps can you take to be a better steward of the natural resources that God has provided in your own context and community?**
* **How does the imagery of water flowing through valleys and hills speak to God's comprehensive and widespread care for all creation, and what does this imply for our own outlook on the world?**

### FAQ
**Why does the psalmist focus on springs in particular, rather than just rain?**

Answer: While rain is undeniably crucial for the land, springs (_maʻyân_) represent a more constant and reliable source of water, especially in a land like Israel with its distinct wet and dry seasons. Springs emerge from underground, often at the base of hills or in valleys, providing a continuous flow regardless of recent precipitation. The psalmist highlights springs to emphasize God's consistent, enduring, and accessible provision, ensuring a steady supply of life-giving water even during dry seasons. This imagery underscores God's meticulous design for sustaining life through stable, year-round sources, complementing the provision of rain mentioned elsewhere, such as in [Psalm 65:9](/psalms/65-9 "Psalm 65:9 - God's Provision of Rain") or [Deuteronomy 11:11-12](/deuteronomy/11-11-12 "Deuteronomy 11:11-12 - The Land of Springs and Rain").

**Does this verse imply that God literally directs every drop of water, or is it poetic language for natural processes?**

Answer: This verse uses rich poetic language to express a profound theological truth: God is sovereign over all natural processes. While the hydrological cycle operates according to established natural laws, the psalmist attributes its very existence, its intricate design, and its ongoing efficacy to God's active will and continuous maintenance. The phrase "He sendeth" emphasizes divine agency, meaning that the natural flow of springs is not merely a random or autonomous occurrence but a deliberate act of God's sustaining power. It is a declaration that the natural world is not independent but functions precisely as God designed and continues to uphold, ensuring His creation is nourished. This perspective elevates the ordinary to the miraculous, seeing God's hand in every aspect of the world's functioning, much like how [Job 38](/job/38 "Job 38 - God's Power in Creation") describes God's direct control over weather and cosmic phenomena.

**How does this verse connect to the idea of God's care for humanity specifically?**

Answer: Though the verse primarily describes God's provision for the natural landscape and its creatures, it implicitly and profoundly extends to humanity. In an agrarian society, the health and fertility of the land, its vegetation, and its animals directly impacted human survival, sustenance, and flourishing. The life-giving water from springs sustains the crops and livestock that feed people, and provides essential drinking water for human communities. Therefore, God's comprehensive care for the broader creation, as depicted throughout [Psalm 104](/psalms/104 "Psalm 104 - A Hymn of Creation"), is ultimately a powerful testament to His meticulous and all-encompassing care for humanity, who are utterly dependent on a thriving ecosystem. It reflects the broader biblical theme that God provides for all His creatures, including humankind, as seen in Jesus' teaching in [Matthew 6:26-30](/matthew/6-26-30 "Matthew 6:26-30 - God's Care for All Life").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Psalm 104:10 beautifully celebrates God's physical provision of water in creation, it finds its ultimate and spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the inexhaustible source of "living water." Just as God actively sends physical springs to nourish the parched earth and sustain all life, so too did He send His Son, Jesus, to bring spiritual life to a parched and dying world. Jesus declared, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water'" ([John 7:37-38](/john/7-37-38 "John 7:37-38 - Jesus, the Source of Living Water")). He is the true, eternal spring that flows into the "valleys" of human need, despair, and spiritual emptiness, reaching even the "hills" of spiritual barrenness and pride. The Samaritan woman at the well encountered this profound truth when Jesus offered her water that would become "a spring of water welling up to eternal life" ([John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "John 4:10-14 - Jesus Offers Living Water")). In Christ, God's provision extends infinitely beyond physical sustenance to eternal spiritual nourishment, quenching the deepest thirsts of the human soul and bringing forth abundant life, just as the springs bring verdant life to the physical landscape. He is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to provide all that is needed for life and godliness, the very River of Life flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb in the new creation ([Revelation 22:1](/revelation/22-1 "Revelation 22:1 - The River of the Water of Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 41:18

I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.

Psalms 107:35

He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.

Isaiah 35:7

And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, [shall be] grass with reeds and rushes.

Deuteronomy 8:7

For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills;