O Lord My God, You Are Very Great: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 104

Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 104, a hymn of praise, celebrates God’s magnificent creation and providential care. It reveals a Creator deeply involved in sustaining the world, from the mountains to the seas, the beasts of the field to the birds of the air. This psalm highlights God’s wisdom and power evident in every facet of creation, inviting us to recognize His glory and respond with gratitude and worship. It echoes the narrative of Genesis, emphasizing God’s role as the architect and sustainer of life. The psalm is also a call to ecological awareness, recognizing our responsibility to care for the earth He created. Understanding God’s creative power allows us to trust in His provision and gives us hope amidst life’s challenges. As Orthodox Christians, meditating on this psalm fosters a deeper connection with the divine and inspires us to live a life of praise, thanksgiving, and stewardship. This blog post dives deep into each verse of Psalm 104, offering commentary rooted in Coptic Orthodox tradition and providing practical applications for modern living so that we can know, “O Lord My God, You Are Very Great!“

Psalm 104 is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of divine creation, providence, and the sheer majesty of God. It’s more than just a beautiful poem; it’s a profound theological statement about the Creator’s relationship with His creation. Let us, through the lens of the Coptic Orthodox faith, explore the depths of this magnificent psalm, unlocking its spiritual treasures and applying its wisdom to our lives.

Commentary Sections

Psalm 104:1-2 (KJV)

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. 2 Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain.

The psalm begins with a personal call to bless the Lord. “Bless the LORD, O my soul,” signifies a conscious decision to engage in worship and thanksgiving. The declaration, “O LORD my God, thou art very great,” sets the tone for the entire psalm. The phrase “clothed with honour and majesty” emphasizes God’s inherent glory and power. The image of being “clothed with light as with a garment” is a powerful metaphor for God’s radiant presence and unapproachable holiness. Light, in the Scriptures, often symbolizes divine revelation and goodness. This can also be seen in the transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ. Lastly, “stretchest out the heavens like a curtain” highlights the expanse of God’s creation and His mastery over it.

St. Athanasius, in Contra Gentes, writes of this divine light: “Ὅτι φῶς ἐστὶν ἡ ἀλήθεια, καὶ σκότος ἡ πλάνη.” (“For light is truth, and darkness is error.” – Athanasius, *Contra Gentes*, 36). This verse reminds us that God is the source of all truth and illumination. We should seek Him in all aspects of our lives, allowing His light to guide us away from the darkness of sin and ignorance.

• Spiritual Application: Let us examine our lives daily and choose to bless the Lord, recognizing His greatness in all things. We can ask ourselves, “Am I truly clothed in the light of Christ, or am I still clinging to darkness?”

Psalm 104:3-4 (KJV)

3 Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind: 4 Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire.

These verses depict God’s active presence in the natural world. Laying “the beams of his chambers in the waters” speaks of the foundations of creation, suggesting God’s power to establish order out of chaos, as referenced in Genesis 1:2. The image of God making “the clouds his chariot” and “walketh upon the wings of the wind” emphasize His transcendence and omnipresence. God is not confined to any one place but actively moves throughout creation. Furthermore, “Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire” speaks of the angelic hosts as instruments of God’s will, executing His commands with speed and power. The angels, in their essence, are spiritual beings serving God’s purposes.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Isaiah, reflects on the role of angels: “Οἱ γὰρ ἄγγελοι λειτουργικὰ πνεύματα εἰσίν, εἰς διακονίαν ἀποστελλόμενα διὰ τοὺς μέλλοντας κληρονομεῖν σωτηρίαν.” (“For the angels are ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for those who shall inherit salvation.” – Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, 7:11). This reminds us that angels are constantly working on our behalf, guiding and protecting us according to God’s will.

• Spiritual Application: We can recognize God’s presence in the natural world and the unseen realm of angels. Are we open to receiving the ministry of angels in our lives? Are we praying for their assistance and guidance?

Psalm 104:5-9 (KJV)

5 Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever. 6 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. 7 At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. 8 They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. 9 Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

This section focuses on God’s establishment of the earth’s stability and boundaries. Laying “the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever” speaks of God’s purposeful creation and enduring plan. The waters covering the earth initially reflect the state described in Genesis 1:2, where the earth was “without form, and void.” God’s rebuke causing the waters to flee demonstrates His power over the natural forces. The mountains rising and valleys sinking are a result of God’s creative act, establishing the topography of the earth. Setting “a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth” shows God’s sovereignty in maintaining order and preventing chaos. This echoes God’s covenant with Noah after the flood. It also provides information on website building.

The Septuagint translation of verse 9 reads: “ὅριον ἔθου ὃ οὐ παρελεύσονται οὐδὲ ἐπιστρέψουσιν καλύψαι τὴν γῆν” emphasizing the unchanging nature of God’s decrees. This reinforces our trust in His promises and His faithfulness to His word.

• Spiritual Application: We can find security in God’s unshakeable foundation. Amidst the uncertainties of life, we can trust that God’s plan will prevail. Do we trust in God’s promise to never again flood the earth? Do we live in fear of natural disasters, or do we trust in God’s providential care?

Psalm 104:10-13 (KJV)

10 He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills. 11 They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst. 12 By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches. 13 He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.

These verses highlight God’s provision for all living creatures. Sending “the springs into the valleys” speaks of God’s active role in providing water, the source of life. Giving “drink to every beast of the field” shows God’s care extends to all of creation, even the wild animals. The birds finding “their habitation” and singing “among the branches” illustrate the harmony and beauty of God’s creation. Watering “the hills from his chambers” and the earth being “satisfied with the fruit of thy works” emphasize God’s abundant provision and the resulting flourishing of life. This section showcases God’s consistent and mindful care for all creation, both great and small.

St. Basil the Great, in his *Homilies on the Hexaemeron*, speaks of God’s providence: “Οὐδὲν οὕτως ἐμφαίνει τὴν σοφίαν τοῦ δημιουργοῦ, ὡς τὸ μηδὲν ἀμελὲς εἶναι τῆς προνοίας αὐτοῦ.” (“Nothing so clearly demonstrates the wisdom of the Creator as the fact that nothing is neglected by His providence.” – Basil the Great, *Homilies on the Hexaemeron*, 6:6). We should recognize that God provides for all our needs and be grateful for His abundant blessings.

• Spiritual Application: We can cultivate a spirit of gratitude for God’s daily provision. Are we thankful for the water we drink, the food we eat, and the shelter we have? Do we acknowledge God’s hand in providing these necessities? We should also consider our role in providing for the needs of others.

Psalm 104:14-18 (KJV)

14 He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; 15 And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart. 16 The trees of the LORD are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted; 17 Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. 18 The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.

This section details God’s specific provisions for both animals and humans. God causes “the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man,” demonstrating His intention for humans and animals to benefit from the earth’s resources. He provides “food out of the earth,” highlighting the bounty of the land. Wine, oil, and bread are mentioned as specific blessings that bring joy, nourishment, and strength to humans. The “trees of the LORD are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted,” speak of God’s special creation of majestic trees. The mountains as a refuge is not only a place for animals but an echo of God as a refuge for his people.

This section directly correlates with Genesis 1 and God creating both plants and animals for the service of man. It is also reflective of the blessing the Lord gave when He created humans to have dominion over His creation.

• Spiritual Application: Let us consider the purpose of the food and drink He gives us. Do we use them for His glory, or for our own selfish pleasures?

Psalm 104:19-23 (KJV)

19 He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. 20 Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. 21 The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. 22 The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. 23 Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.

These verses describe the order and regularity of God’s created world. The “moon for seasons” emphasizes God’s design for timekeeping and cyclical patterns. The “sun knoweth his going down” illustrates the predictability and reliability of the natural order. “Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth” speaks of the cycle of day and night and the activity of creatures during the night. “The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God” demonstrates that even predatory animals depend on God for their sustenance. “Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening” shows the daily rhythm of human activity, working during the day and resting at night.

• Spiritual Application: We can find comfort in the regular rhythm of God’s creation. Do we recognize God’s hand in the changing seasons and the cycle of day and night? Do we appreciate the opportunity to work and rest according to God’s design? We should strive to order our lives according to God’s rhythm, balancing work, rest, and prayer.

Psalm 104:24-26 (KJV)

24 O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.

These verses express awe and wonder at the diversity and abundance of God’s creation. “O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all” is a direct expression of praise for God’s creative ingenuity. “The earth is full of thy riches” highlights the abundance of resources and life that God has provided. The “great and wide sea” is described as teeming with life, both small and large. The mention of ships and the “leviathan” (likely a large sea creature) emphasizes the vastness and mystery of the sea, all within God’s dominion.

• Spiritual Application: We can cultivate a sense of wonder and awe at God’s creation. Do we take time to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world? We should see creation as a reflection of God’s glory and be inspired to worship Him.

Psalm 104:27-30 (KJV)

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

This section emphasizes God’s role as the sustainer of all life. “These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season” highlights the dependence of all creatures on God for their nourishment. “That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good” shows God’s generosity and the abundance of His provision. “Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust” speaks of the fragility of life and the dependence of all creatures on God’s breath. “Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth” emphasizes God’s power to create and renew life. The Spirit is the source of all creation, constantly working to sustain and revitalize the world.

• Spiritual Application: We can recognize our complete dependence on God for our sustenance and well-being. Do we acknowledge God’s hand in providing for our needs? We should seek to live in a way that honors God’s provision and reflects His generosity.

Psalm 104:31-35 (KJV)

31 The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works. 32 He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke. 33 I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. 34 My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD. 35 Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.

The psalm concludes with a reaffirmation of God’s eternal glory and a call to praise Him. “The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works” emphasizes the unchanging nature of God’s glory and His delight in His creation. “He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke” speaks of God’s power and majesty, inspiring awe and reverence. “I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being” expresses a commitment to lifelong worship and adoration. “My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD” highlights the joy and peace that comes from contemplating God’s goodness. Finally, calling for the destruction of sinners and the wicked emphasizes the importance of righteousness and justice. The psalm ends with a personal call to bless the Lord and a general call to praise Him.

• Spiritual Application: We can cultivate a lifelong commitment to worship and praise God. Do we make time each day to sing praises to God and meditate on His goodness? We should strive to live a life that reflects God’s righteousness and justice and pray for the conversion of sinners.

Subtopic: God’s Wisdom in Creation 💡

Psalm 104 repeatedly emphasizes the wisdom of God in creating the world. It’s not just a random act but a carefully orchestrated symphony of life, order, and beauty. What are some key takeaways about God’s wisdom as revealed in this psalm?

• Divine Order: God doesn’t just create; He orders. The placement of mountains, the flow of rivers, the cycles of day and night—all demonstrate a purposeful design.
• Interconnectedness: Every part of creation is interconnected and interdependent. Animals rely on plants, humans rely on animals, and everything ultimately relies on God’s provision.
• Beauty and Majesty: God’s wisdom isn’t just about functionality; it’s also about beauty. The soaring cedars of Lebanon, the vastness of the sea, the songs of the birds—all reflect God’s artistic touch.
• Provision for All: God’s wisdom ensures that every creature has what it needs to thrive. He provides food, water, shelter, and everything else necessary for life.
• A Reflection of Himself: As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we believe that creation reflects the Creator. By studying and appreciating creation, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s attributes.
• A Call to Stewardship: Recognizing God’s wisdom in creation should inspire us to be responsible stewards of the earth, protecting its resources and preserving its beauty for future generations.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Psalm 104 and its relevance to Coptic Orthodox Christians:

• Q: Why is it important to study the Old Testament, especially Psalms, as Orthodox Christians?

  A: The Old Testament, including the Psalms, is an integral part of our Christian heritage. It reveals God’s character, His plan of salvation, and provides a foundation for understanding the New Testament. The Psalms, in particular, offer a rich tapestry of prayers, hymns, and reflections that resonate with our own spiritual experiences.

• Q: How does Psalm 104 relate to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of creation?

  A: Psalm 104 aligns perfectly with the Coptic Orthodox understanding of creation as a deliberate act of God’s wisdom and love. We believe that God created the world ex nihilo (out of nothing) and that He continues to sustain and care for it. The psalm affirms this belief by highlighting God’s providential care for all creatures.

• Q: What practical lessons can we learn from Psalm 104 for our daily lives?

  A: Psalm 104 teaches us to cultivate gratitude for God’s provision, to appreciate the beauty of creation, and to recognize our responsibility as stewards of the earth. It also inspires us to worship God with our whole being and to find joy in meditating on His goodness.

• Q: How can I use Psalm 104 in my personal prayer life?

  A: Psalm 104 can be used as a prayer of thanksgiving, praising God for His creation and His providential care. You can also use it as a guide for meditating on God’s attributes, such as His wisdom, power, and love. Consider reading it slowly, reflecting on each verse, and allowing God to speak to your heart.

Conclusion

Psalm 104 is a profound testament to the greatness and glory of God. It is more than just a descriptive account of creation; it’s an invitation to enter into a deeper relationship with the Creator. By meditating on its verses, we gain a greater appreciation for God’s wisdom, power, and love. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to embrace this psalm as a source of inspiration and guidance. Let us respond to God’s magnificent creation with gratitude, worship, and a commitment to responsible stewardship. Let this psalm remind us that “O Lord My God, You Are Very Great!” and that this knowledge should inspire us to live a life that reflects His glory.

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Psalm 104, Coptic Orthodox, Creation, Theology, Commentary, Bible Study, God, Faith, Worship, Spirituality

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Explore Psalm 104 verse-by-verse with a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Discover God’s greatness, wisdom in creation, and practical applications for modern life. O Lord My God, You Are Very Great!