TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Psalms 104:10–18. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Having given glory to God as the powerful protector of this earth, in saving it from being deluged, here he comes to acknowledge him as its bountiful benefactor, who provides conveniences for all the creatures.
I.He provides fresh water for their drink:
He sends the springs into the valleys, Psa 104:10. There is water enough indeed in the sea, that is, enough to drown us, but not one drop to refresh us, be we ever so thirsty - it is all so salt; and therefore God has graciously provided water fit to drink. Naturalists dispute about the origin of fountains; but, whatever are their second causes, here is their first cause; it is God that sends the springs into the brooks, which walk by easy steps between the hills, and receive increase from the rain-water that descends from them. These give drink, not only to man, and those creatures that are immediately useful to him, but to every beast of the field (Psa 104:11); for where God has given life he provides a livelihood and takes care of all the creatures. Even the wild asses, though untameable and therefore of no use to man, are welcome to quench their thirst; and we have no reason to grudge it them, for we are better provided for, though born like the wild ass's colt. We have reason to thank God for the plenty of fair water with which he has provided the habitable part of his earth, which otherwise would not be habitable. That ought to be reckoned a great mercy the want of which would be a great affliction; and the more common it is the greater mercy it is. Usus communis aquarum - water is common for all.
II.He provides food convenient for them, both for man and beast:
The heavens drop fatness; they hear the earth, but God hears them, Hos 2:21. He waters the hills from his chambers (Psa 104:13), from those chambers spoken of (Psa 104:3), the beams of which he lays in the waters, those store-chambers, the clouds that distil fruitful showers. The hills that are not watered by the rivers, as Egypt was by the Nile, are watered by the rain from heaven, which is called the river of God (Psa 65:9), as Canaan was, Deu 11:11, Deu 11:12. Thus the earth is satisfied with the fruit of his works, either with the rain it drinks in (the earth knows when it has enough; it is a pity that any man should not) or with the products it brings forth. It is a satisfaction to the earth to bear the fruit of God's works for the benefit of man, for thus it answers the end of its creation. The food which God brings forth out of the earth (Psa 104:14) is the fruit of his works, which the earth is satisfied with. Observe how various and how valuable its products are.
1.For the cattle there is grass, and the beasts of prey, that live not on grass, feed on those that do; for man there is herb, a better sort of grass (and a dinner of herbs and roots is not to be despised); nay, he is furnished with wine, and oil, and bread, Psa 104:15. We may observe here, concerning our food, that which will help to make us both humble and thankful.
(1.)To make us humble let us consider that we have a necessary dependence upon God for all the supports of this life (we live upon alms; we are at his finding, for our own hands are not sufficient for us), - that our food comes all out of the earth, to remind us whence we ourselves were taken and whither we must return, - and that therefore we must not think to live by bread alone, for that will feed the body only, but must look into the word of God for the meat that endures to eternal life. Let us also consider that we are in this respect fellow-commoners with the beasts; the same earth, the same spot of ground, that brings grass for the cattle, brings corn for man.
(2.)To make us thankful let us consider,
[1.]That God not only provides for us, but for our servants. The cattle that are of use to man are particularly taken care of; grass is made to grow in great abundance for them, when the young lions, that are not for the service of man, often lack and suffer hunger.
[2.]That our food is nigh us, and ready to us. Having our habitation on the earth, there we have our storehouse, and depend not on the merchant-ships that bring food from afar, Pro 31:14.
[3.]That we have even from the products of the earth, not only for necessity, but for ornament and delight, so good a Master do we serve. First, Does nature call for something to support it, and repair its daily decays? Here is bread, which strengthens man's heart, and is therefore called the staff of life; let none who have that complain of want. Secondly, Does nature go further, and covet something pleasant? Here is wine, that makes glad the heart, refreshes the spirits, and exhilarates them, when it is soberly and moderately used, that we may not only go through our business, but go through it cheerfully. It is a pity that that should be abused to overcharge the heart, and unfit men for their duty, which was given to revive their heart and quicken them in their duty. Thirdly, Is nature yet more humoursome, and does it crave something for ornament too? Here is that also out of the earth - oil to make the face to shine, that the countenance may not only be cheerful but beautiful, and we may be the more acceptable to one another.
2.Nay, the divine providence not only furnishes animals with their proper food, but vegetables also with theirs (Psa 104:16): The trees of the Lord are full of sap, not only men's trees, which they take care of and have an eye to, in their orchards, and parks, and other enclosures, but God's trees, which grow in the wildernesses, and are taken care of only by his providence; they are full of sap and want no nourishment. Even the cedars of Lebanon, an open forest, though they are high and bulky, and require a great deal of sap to feed them, have enough from the earth; they are trees which he has planted, and which therefore he will protect and provide for. We may apply this to the trees of righteousness, which are the planting of the Lord, planted in his vineyard; these are full of sap, for what God plants he will water, and those that are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God, Psa 92:13.
III.He takes care that they shall have suitable habitations to dwell in.
To men God has given discretion to build for themselves and for the cattle that are serviceable to them; but there are some creatures which God more immediately provides a settlement for.
1.The birds. Some birds, by instinct, make their nests in the bushes near rivers (Psa 104:12): By the springs that run among the hills some of the fowls of heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches. They sing, according to their capacity, to the honour of their Creator and benefactor, and their singing may shame our silence. Our heavenly Father feeds them (Mat 6:26), and therefore they are easy and cheerful, and take no thought for the morrow. The birds being made to fly above the earth (as we find, Gen 1:20), they make their nests on high, in the tops of trees (Psa 104:17); it should seem as if nature had an eye to this in planting the cedars of Lebanon, that they might be receptacles for the birds. Those that fly heavenward shall not want resting-places. The stork is particularly mentioned; the fir-trees, which are very high, are her house, her castle.
2.The smaller sort of beasts (Psa 104:18): The wild goats, having neither strength nor swiftness to secure themselves, are guided by instinct to the high hills, which are a refuge to them; and the rabbits, which are also helpless animals, find shelter in the rocks, where they can set the beasts of prey at defiance. Does God provide thus for the inferior creatures; and will he not himself be a refuge and dwelling-place to his own people?
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
For it follows, "All the beasts of the wood shall drink" [Psalm 104:11]. We do indeed see this also in the visible creation, that the beasts of the wood drink of springs, and of streams that run between the mountains: but now since it has pleased God to hide His own wisdom in the figures of such things, not to take it away from earnest seekers, but to close it to them that care not, and open it to them that knock; it has also pleased our Lord God Himself to exhort you by us to this, that in all these things which are said as if of the bodily and visible creation, we may seek something spiritually hidden, in which when found we may rejoice. The beasts of the wood, we understand the Gentiles, and Holy Scripture witnesses this in many places....
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Summary
Psalms 104:11 serves as a vivid portrayal of God's meticulous and universal provision, specifically highlighting His sovereign care for all living creatures, even those dwelling in the untamed wilderness. Within this grand hymn celebrating the Creator and Sustainer of the cosmos, this verse underscores that divine sustenance extends beyond humanity, ensuring that every beast of the field, including the resilient wild asses, finds their essential needs, particularly water, abundantly met by the Lord's benevolent hand.
Context
Literary Context
Psalms 104 is a magnificent creation psalm, often paralleled with the creation account in Genesis 1, detailing God's work from the heavens to the earth. It follows a narrative flow that describes God establishing the earth, clothing Himself with light, spreading out the heavens, and then turning His attention to the provision of water. Psalm 104:10 explicitly states that God "sends forth springs into the valleys," which then "run among the hills." Verse 11 directly builds upon this, explaining the purpose and beneficiaries of these divinely provided water sources: they are for the sustenance of the animal kingdom. This progression showcases a divinely orchestrated ecosystem, where every element, from flowing water to thirsty animals, is meticulously sustained by God's pervasive and active hand, demonstrating the seamless continuity of God's creative and sustaining activity.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the arid and semi-arid regions of ancient Israel, water was an invaluable and often scarce commodity, directly linked to survival and prosperity. The presence or absence of reliable water sources dictated settlement patterns, agricultural success, and the very possibility of life for both humans and animals. While humans could dig wells or manage irrigation, the provision of natural springs and streams for wild animals was understood as a direct act of divine benevolence, beyond human control or intervention. The mention of "wild asses" (Hebrew: pere') is particularly significant, as these animals were known for their ability to survive in harsh, desolate, and often water-scarce environments, making God's provision for them a particularly striking demonstration of His comprehensive care, reaching even the most remote and challenging habitats. This highlights a deep cultural appreciation for the miracle of water in a parched land.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalms 104 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes Divine Provision, illustrating God's comprehensive and unfailing care that extends to all of creation, not just humanity. It underscores that God's sustenance is universal, encompassing even the "beast of the field" and the resilient "wild asses," demonstrating His active involvement in the daily needs of every living thing, a truth echoed in Psalm 145:15-16. Secondly, the verse highlights the Sustenance of Life, presenting water as a fundamental necessity freely given by God to quench the thirst of creatures, thereby affirming His role as the ultimate provider of life's essentials. This echoes the life-giving Spirit of God described in Genesis 1:2 and the ongoing work of God to sustain all that He has made. Finally, it speaks to God's Wisdom and Design in Nature, showcasing the intricate balance of the natural world and God's foresight in designing an environment where all creatures can thrive, even those inhabiting seemingly desolate or wild places, a theme beautifully articulated in Job 38-41.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H8248) signifies to irrigate or furnish a potion, encompassing the act of causing to drink or moistening. In this context, it refers to the active, intentional provision of water by the springs and streams (which are themselves God's agents). It emphasizes that the water is not merely present, but purposefully supplied to meet the needs of living creatures, reflecting God's deliberate and generous sustenance.
This noun (H2416) refers to a living thing, often specifically a wild animal, distinguishing it from domesticated livestock. Its inclusion broadens the scope of God's care to encompass all creatures of the wild, underscoring that His benevolent provision extends beyond human-controlled environments to the untamed wilderness, ensuring no living being is outside His watchful eye.
This specific noun (H6501) refers to the onager, a type of wild ass known for its independence and ability to thrive in harsh, arid conditions. By singling out these resilient creatures, the psalmist powerfully illustrates that God's provision reaches even the most independent and seemingly self-sufficient animals in the most challenging and water-scarce habitats, highlighting the comprehensive and meticulous nature of His care.
Verse Breakdown
"They give drink to every beast of the field"
This opening clause establishes the universal scope of divine provision. The "they" refers to the springs and waters that God, in the preceding verse (Psalm 104:10), has sent forth. It signifies that these natural water sources are not random occurrences but are divinely purposed to sustain all wild creatures. The phrase "every beast of the field" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this care, leaving no species unprovided for, showcasing God's all-encompassing benevolence.
"the wild asses quench their thirst"
This second clause provides a specific, vivid example that reinforces and particularizes the general statement. By singling out the "wild asses," creatures known for their resilience in arid environments, the psalmist underscores the meticulousness and effectiveness of God's provision. It paints a picture of these hardy animals finding relief and sustenance directly from God's natural provisions, fulfilling their most basic and urgent need for water and demonstrating the tangible outcome of His sustaining hand.
Literary Devices
The psalmist employs several literary devices to convey the profound truth of God's universal provision. Personification is subtly used as the springs and waters are depicted as actively "giving drink," implying a conscious, benevolent action, though ultimately attributed to God's design and ongoing work. Synecdoche is evident in the specific mention of "wild asses," which serves as a representative example for all "beasts of the field," powerfully highlighting God's meticulous care for even the most independent and hard-to-reach creatures within His vast creation. The verse is rich in Imagery, evoking a vivid and pastoral scene of wild animals gathering at life-giving waters, a stark contrast to the parched landscapes they often inhabit. This imagery underscores the miraculous, essential, and pervasive nature of God's provision in sustaining the intricate web of life.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Psalms 104:11 profoundly speaks to the theological truth of God's active and benevolent sovereignty over all creation. It reveals a God who is not distant or detached but intimately involved in the daily sustenance of every living thing, demonstrating His faithfulness and generosity. This verse challenges anthropocentric views by showing that God's care extends far beyond humanity, encompassing the entire animal kingdom. It implies that if God meticulously provides for the basic needs of wild animals, who neither toil nor sow, then His human children, made in His image, can trust even more deeply in His boundless love and provision for their own needs, both physical and spiritual. This divine care for creation also calls believers to a posture of gratitude, wonder, and responsible stewardship of the natural world, recognizing it as a direct expression of God's glory and sustaining power.
Reflection and Application
This verse offers a profound invitation to trust and wonder. In a world often marked by anxiety, scarcity, and a sense of being overwhelmed, Psalms 104:11 serves as a powerful reminder of God's unfailing faithfulness and comprehensive provision. If God orchestrates the flow of springs to quench the thirst of wild asses in desolate places, how much more can we, His beloved children, rely on Him for our daily bread, our spiritual sustenance, and every need? It encourages us to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for the intricate beauty and sustainability of the natural world, recognizing it not merely as a resource but as a vibrant testament to God's ongoing creative and sustaining power. This perspective should inspire us to live with less anxiety about our future, knowing that the same God who cares for the "beast of the field" also cares for us with an even greater, intimate love. It also calls us to consider our role as stewards of creation, appreciating its intrinsic value not just for human benefit, but as something God Himself cherishes and actively sustains, reflecting His glory.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are "wild asses" specifically mentioned in this verse?
The specific mention of "wild asses" (Hebrew: pere') is highly significant because these animals were known for their remarkable resilience and ability to survive in harsh, often arid, and desolate environments. Unlike domesticated animals that rely on human care, wild asses are independent and thrive in conditions where water is scarce. By highlighting God's provision for them, the psalmist emphasizes the universality and thoroughness of God's care, demonstrating that His benevolent hand reaches even the most remote, untamed, and seemingly self-sufficient creatures. It underscores that no part of creation is beyond the scope of His sustaining power, making the divine provision all the more astounding and comprehensive, as seen in the description of their habitat and freedom in Job 39:5-8.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Psalms 104:11 speaks of God's general provision for creation, its principles find ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. As the Word through whom all things were made and by whom all things are sustained (Colossians 1:16-17), Christ is the divine agent of the very provision described in the psalm. He is the Living Water who quenches not merely physical thirst, but the spiritual thirst of humanity, offering eternal life to those who believe. Just as God provides for the wild asses, Jesus assures His followers that their Heavenly Father cares for them even more profoundly than for the birds of the air (Matthew 6:26 and Luke 12:24). This demonstrates that the meticulous care God shows for creation is a foreshadowing of His even greater, redemptive care for humanity through Christ. In Him, we find not just physical sustenance, but the ultimate provision for our souls, cleansing from sin, and the promise of eternal life, fulfilling the deepest needs that no earthly spring could ever satisfy. He is the ultimate expression of God's benevolent provision, meeting our deepest spiritual needs and sustaining us in every way (Philippians 4:19).