King James Version
What Does Psalms 104:30 Mean?
“Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth.”
Context
28
That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.
29
Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust.
30
Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth.
31
The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works. endure: Heb. be
32
He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(30) **Spirit.**—Rather, *breath, *as in Psalm 104:29. We must not here think of the later theological doctrine of the Holy Spirit. The psalmist evidently regards the breath of God only as the vivifying power that gives matter a distinct and individual, but transient, existence. Even in the speculative book of Ecclesiastes, the idea of a human soul having a permanent separate existence does not make its appearance. At death the dust, no longer animate, returns to the earth as it was, and the breath, which had given it life, returns to God who gave it—gave it as an emanation, to be resumed unto Himself when its work was done. Still less, then, must we look in poetry for any more developed doctrine.
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 104:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 104:30
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge