Old Testament
Psalms 104:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their food from God.
Compare translations
The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God.
What Psalms 104:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist observes young lions, which symbolize strength and ferocity, as they roar in search of food. This imagery highlights the natural instinct of these creatures to hunt and survive. However, the verse also emphasizes that their sustenance ultimately comes from God. This reflects a broader theme in the Psalms, where the dependence of all creation on God for provision is acknowledged. The lions, despite their power, rely on divine provision for their needs. This serves as a reminder that while we may strive and work hard for our needs, it is ultimately God who provides for us. The verse encourages us to recognize our reliance on God in all aspects of life, including our physical needs. It also invites us to trust in God's provision, just as the lions trust in Him for their food. This duality of strength and dependence illustrates the balance between human effort and divine support in the pursuit of our needs.
How to apply Psalms 104:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our dependence on God for our daily needs. Just as young lions seek their food from God, we should trust Him to provide for us. In our efforts to achieve our goals, we must remember to rely on divine support and guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 104:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 104:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 104:21 teach about God's provision?
Psalms 104:21 illustrates that even the powerful young lions depend on God for their food, emphasizing that all creatures rely on divine provision. This verse teaches us that while we may strive for our needs, it is ultimately God who sustains us. It encourages us to recognize our reliance on Him for everything in life.
How can I apply Psalms 104:21 in my daily life?
You can apply Psalms 104:21 by acknowledging your dependence on God for your daily needs. Just as young lions seek their food from God, you should trust Him to provide for you. In your efforts to achieve your goals, remember to seek God's guidance and support, reinforcing the balance between your hard work and divine assistance.
What is the significance of lions in Psalms 104:21?
In Psalms 104:21, young lions symbolize strength and ferocity, representing the natural instincts of creatures to hunt and survive. Their roaring signifies the pursuit of their needs, yet the verse highlights that despite their power, they rely on God for sustenance. This duality illustrates the balance between strength and dependence on divine provision.
Does Psalms 104:21 reflect a broader theme in the Psalms?
Yes, Psalms 104:21 reflects a broader theme in the Psalms regarding God's provision and the dependence of all creation on Him. Throughout the Psalms, there is a consistent acknowledgment that God is the source of sustenance and support for all living beings, encouraging believers to trust in His care and provision.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.