The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens.
PSALMS 104:22KJVWhat does Psalms 104:22 mean?
Psalms 104:22 describes how, when the sun rises, the wild animals that were active at night return to their hiding places and rest in their dens. The verse highlights the natural order and rhythm of creation, where animals respond to the cycle of day and night.
The psalm is a song of praise, traditionally attributed to David, celebrating God’s wisdom in how the world is made and sustained. Here, the focus is on how even the animals’ daily routines—coming out at night and retreating at sunrise—are part of a larger, divinely ordered system. This verse fits into a section describing how different creatures have their appointed times and places in creation.
The Hebrew behind Psalms 104:22
- sun (שֶׁמֶשׁ, shemesh): This word simply means "sun," and its rising marks the transition from night to day, signaling a change in activity for both animals and humans.
- gather themselves together (אָסַף, asaf): This word often means to "gather" or "collect," and here it describes the animals regrouping or withdrawing as daylight comes.
- lay them down (רָבַץ, ravats): This verb means to "lie down" or "rest," emphasizing the animals’ return to a state of rest and safety in their dens.
- dens (מְעוֹנָה, me'onah): This word refers to a dwelling or shelter, specifically the safe places where animals hide or sleep during the day.
Why Psalms 104:22 matters
- Psalms 104:22 clears up any idea that the natural world is chaotic or random; instead, it shows a pattern and order in creation, with animals instinctively following the rhythm set by the sun.
- The verse emphasizes that God’s care and design extend even to the habits of wild animals, not just to humans or more "important" creatures.
- This detail connects to the broader theme of Psalms 104, which marvels at the wisdom and provision seen in every part of the natural world, encouraging a sense of wonder and respect for creation.