King James Version

What Does Psalms 104:25 Mean?

“So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.”

Context

Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.

O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.

There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein. made: Heb. formed

These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(25) **So is . . .**—**Better,** *Yonder is the sea great and broad. *For a moment the poet, “lost in wonder, love and praise,” has forgotten his model, the Mosaic account of creation. But suddenly, as his eye catches sight of the sea—we imagine him on some hill-top, commanding on the one hand the range of Lebanon, on the other the Mediterranean—the words recur to him, “Let the waters bring forth abundantly,” &c **Creeping.**—See Psalm 104:20. Perhaps here, “swarming.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 104:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.