Psalms 104:5

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Who laid {H3245} the foundations {H4349} of the earth {H776}, that it should not be removed {H4131} for ever {H5769}{H5703}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You fixed the earth on its foundations, never to be moved.

Berean Standard Bible

He set the earth on its foundations, never to be moved.

American Standard Version

Who laid the foundations of the earth, That it should not be moved for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 104:5 serves as a profound declaration of God's majestic power and intricate wisdom as the sovereign Creator and sustainer of the earth. This verse anchors the psalm's grand hymn of creation, asserting that God not only brought the world into existence but also established it upon secure and enduring foundations, ensuring its perpetual stability against any force that might seek to dislodge or destroy it. It highlights the divine intentionality and ongoing providence behind the very ground beneath our feet, standing as a timeless testament to God's faithfulness and the inherent reliability of His created order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 104 is a magnificent hymn of praise, widely recognized as a poetic meditation on the creation narrative found in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account"). The psalm systematically unfolds various aspects of creation, commencing with God's self-revelation clothed in light and His stretching out of the heavens (verses 1-4). Verse 5 then shifts focus to the establishment of the earth itself, serving as a foundational statement that literally asserts God's initial act of setting the planet upon its base. This act sets the stage for the subsequent detailed descriptions of the earth's features, the ordering of its waters, the formation of mountains and valleys, and the intricate cycles of nature that sustain all life (verses 6-23). The stability declared in verse 5 is therefore crucial, as it underscores the secure platform upon which all subsequent life and divine order depend, emphasizing the deliberate and permanent nature of God's creative work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, various cosmologies often depicted the earth as resting on pillars, foundations, or even the backs of mythical creatures, frequently associated with chaotic primeval waters or the capricious power of multiple deities. The psalmist, however, makes a powerful theological statement by firmly attributing this foundational work solely to Yahweh, the God of Israel. This assertion directly contrasts with surrounding polytheistic beliefs, highlighting the unique monotheism of Israel. For an agricultural society deeply dependent on predictable seasons, stable land, and a secure dwelling place, the stability of the earth was not merely an abstract philosophical concept but a deeply practical and reassuring reality. The declaration that the earth "should not be removed for ever" would have resonated profoundly, offering a comforting assurance of divine order and control in a world often perceived as unpredictable or subject to arbitrary forces.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 104:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Divine Omnipotence and Wisdom in Creation**, presenting God as the ultimate Architect who not only forms but *founds* the earth with unparalleled power and intricate design. This speaks to a deliberate, intentional act by an all-wise God, echoing themes found in [Proverbs 3:19](/proverbs/3-19 "Proverbs 3:19 - The Lord by Wisdom Founded the Earth"). Secondly, the declaration "that it should not be removed for ever" highlights the **Earth's Enduring Stability**. Despite geological dynamics or human activity, the earth, by divine decree, remains stable and firm in its appointed place. This is a profound testament to God's continuous providential care that upholds all things, a concept beautifully articulated in [Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ Upholds All Things"). Lastly, while speaking of initial creation, the verse strongly implies God's **Sustaining Providence**. The earth's stability is not inherent but is actively maintained by the will and power of its Creator, showcasing God's active involvement in His creation throughout history, a concept reinforced in [Nehemiah 9:6](/nehemiah/9-6 "Nehemiah 9:6 - God Preserves All Things").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Foundations (Hebrew, _mâkôwn'_):** From H4349, this word properly denotes a fixture, a basis, or a settled place. It speaks of something laid down with purpose, strength, and permanence, much like the bedrock or deep substructure of a building. In the context of the earth, it implies that God did not merely form a surface but established a deep, stable, and secure substructure that guarantees its integrity and endurance. It conveys the idea of a divinely appointed and fixed dwelling place.
* **Removed (Hebrew, _môwṭ'_):** From H4131, this verb signifies to waver, slip, shake, or fall. The negative construction "not be removed" emphatically assures that the earth will not be destabilized, dislodged from its orbit, or slip into chaos. It highlights God's absolute power to maintain cosmic order and prevent any form of collapse, ensuring the earth remains steadfast in its divinely appointed position and function.
* **For ever (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** From H5769, this term carries the sense of perpetuity, eternity, or an enduring age, often referring to time out of mind (past or future). While it does not necessarily imply an absolute, unending existence in all possible future states (especially in light of "new heavens and new earth" prophecies), in this context, it signifies the enduring nature of God's creative work and His commitment to maintaining the cosmic order for its intended duration and purpose, through countless generations. It speaks to the reliability and steadfastness of God's design and ongoing providential care.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[Who] laid the foundations of the earth":** This opening clause unequivocally attributes the fundamental act of establishing the planet to God. It portrays Him as the supreme architect, meticulously designing and securely setting the earth upon its base. This is not a random occurrence but a deliberate, intentional act of creation, underscoring God's immense power, precise wisdom, and sovereign authority over all matter and space. The earth's very existence and its underlying structure are a direct result of His foundational work, providing a stable platform for life.
* **"[that] it should not be removed for ever":** This second clause articulates the purpose and consequence of God's foundational work: the enduring stability and permanence of the earth. It declares that by God's decree and ongoing power, the earth will not be shaken, totter, or slip from its appointed place. This speaks to God's continuous providential care, ensuring the steadfastness of creation against any force that might seek to destabilize or destroy it. It provides a reliable and unshakeable stage for the unfolding of life, human history, and God's redemptive plan, assuring a consistent environment for generations.

#### Literary Devices
The psalmist employs several literary devices to convey the profound theological truth of Psalms 104:5. **Personification** is evident as the earth is described as having "foundations," a characteristic typically applied to human-built structures. This anthropomorphic language helps the reader visualize the earth as a securely built dwelling, emphasizing its stability and the deliberate design behind it. The phrase "should not be removed for ever" utilizes **hyperbole** or poetic exaggeration to underscore the absolute and enduring nature of God's design and sustenance. While the earth is geologically dynamic, the phrase poetically asserts its fundamental and divinely guaranteed stability for its intended purpose and duration. An implied **antithesis** exists between the chaos often associated with primeval waters or the unpredictable forces attributed to pagan deities in ancient Near Eastern cosmologies, and the divinely ordained order and stability established by Yahweh, highlighting God's unique power to bring and maintain cosmic order.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 104:5 stands as a powerful theological statement about God's absolute sovereignty and unwavering faithfulness. The earth's enduring stability, divinely established and perpetually maintained, serves as a tangible witness to the unchanging character of its Creator. It reassures humanity that the God who laid the cosmic foundations is also the reliable God who upholds His promises and governs all things with steadfast purpose. This steadfastness of creation powerfully reflects the steadfastness of God's covenantal love and His meticulous providential care for His people. The physical stability of the earth provides a secure stage for the drama of human history and redemption, reminding us that even amidst personal or global uncertainties, the ultimate foundation of reality rests securely and eternally in God's capable hands.

* [Isaiah 45:18](/isaiah/45-18 "Isaiah 45:18 - God Formed the Earth to be Inhabited")
* [Job 38:4-7](/job/38-4-7 "Job 38:4-7 - God's Questions to Job about Creation")
* [Psalm 93:1](/psalms/93-1 "Psalm 93:1 - The Lord is Clothed with Majesty")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth of Psalms 104:5 invites us to gaze upon the world with renewed awe and worship for its divine Architect. In a world often characterized by instability, uncertainty, and rapid change—whether personal, societal, or global—the declaration that God "laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever" offers immense comfort and a solid basis for trust. It reminds us that our lives, though seemingly small in the grand cosmic scheme, are lived on a stage meticulously designed and perpetually sustained by an all-powerful, all-wise, and faithful God. This truth should foster a deep sense of security, knowing that the same God who ensures the earth's stability also holds our individual lives and destinies securely in His hands. It calls us to respond with humble reverence, to live in harmony with creation as stewards, and to place our unwavering trust in the continuous providence of the One who established the very ground beneath our feet and sustains all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the enduring stability of the earth, as described in this verse, bring comfort or challenge to your understanding of God's character and His active involvement in the world today?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God as the ultimate "foundation-layer" influence your approach to personal stability and your trust in His providence during times of uncertainty, fear, or upheaval?**
* **What practical implications does God's continuous sustenance of creation have for our stewardship of the earth, our responsibility to care for it, and our perspective on environmental concerns?**

### FAQ

**Does "not be removed for ever" mean the earth will never end?**

Answer: The phrase "for ever" (Hebrew: *ʻôwlâm*) in this context signifies an enduring perpetuity or for an age, rather than an absolute, literal eternity without any change whatsoever. Biblical language, especially poetic and theological language, often describes things phenomenologically—how they appear and function for their intended purpose within the current cosmic order. The psalmist emphasizes the earth's stability and reliability for the duration of its present form, ensuring it remains a habitable and steadfast home for humanity through generations. This does not necessarily contradict New Testament prophecies about a future transformation, such as the "new heavens and new earth" described in [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Heaven and New Earth") or the passing away of the present heavens and earth in [2 Peter 3:10](/2_peter/3-10 "2 Peter 3:10 - The Day of the Lord Comes"). Rather, it assures us that the earth will remain stable and fulfill God's purposes until He chooses to bring about its ultimate renewal or transformation in His sovereign timing.

**How does this verse relate to scientific understanding of geology or cosmology?**

Answer: Psalms 104:5, like other biblical creation accounts, is fundamentally a theological statement, not a scientific treatise. Its primary purpose is to declare God's power, wisdom, and sovereignty as the Creator and Sustainer, inspiring worship, reverence, and trust in His providential care. It describes the earth from a human, observational perspective (phenomenological language) and for theological purposes, emphasizing divine control and reliability. It is not intended to provide a detailed scientific explanation of geological processes, plate tectonics, or the earth's dynamic internal structure. The "foundations" are a poetic metaphor for the earth's secure establishment by God, and "not be removed" asserts God's divine control over its fundamental stability, ensuring it remains habitable and reliable for its intended duration, despite any natural changes or movements. The Bible and science operate on different but complementary levels of truth: the Bible reveals the *Who* and *Why* of creation, while science explores the *How* and *What* of its mechanisms.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 104:5, with its declaration of God laying the foundations of the earth for its enduring stability, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The New Testament profoundly reveals that it was through Christ that all things were created, and by Him, all things continuously hold together. [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ, Creator and Sustainer of All Things") explicitly states that "by him all things were created... and in him all things hold together." The stability of the physical earth, established by the Father, is continuously upheld by the Son, who is "the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholds All Things by His Power")). Therefore, the unshakeable nature of the earth points to the unshakeable power, faithfulness, and eternal reliability of Christ Himself. Furthermore, Christ is presented as the ultimate, sure foundation for believers. Just as the earth has a secure base, so too do those who build their lives on Christ find an enduring and unmovable spiritual foundation, as declared in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ, the Only Foundation"). His kingdom is an "unshakable kingdom" ([Hebrews 12:27-28](/hebrews/12-27-28 "Hebrews 12:27-28 - The Unshakable Kingdom")), providing eternal stability and security that far surpasses the physical permanence of the earth. Thus, the psalm's praise for the Creator who laid the earth's foundations ultimately leads us to worship Christ, the divine Word and Sustainer, who is our eternal and unshakeable hope.

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

Job 26:7

He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, [and] hangeth the earth upon nothing.

Psalms 24:2

For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.

Psalms 33:9

For he spake, and it was [done]; he commanded, and it stood fast.

Psalms 96:10

¶ Say among the heathen [that] the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.

2 Peter 3:10

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

Psalms 136:6

To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.

Revelation 20:11

¶ And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.