Old Testament

Psalms 104:22

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The sun rises, they gather themselves together, and lie down in their dens.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens.

What Psalms 104:22 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse describes the daily rhythm of nature, particularly focusing on the behavior of animals as the sun rises. When the sun comes up, various creatures emerge from their hiding places, gathering together to start their day. However, as the day progresses and the sun sets, they retreat back to their dens to rest. This imagery highlights the order and routine established by God in creation, showcasing how all living beings have their designated times for activity and rest. It reflects the natural cycle of life, emphasizing the dependence of animals on the sun for their daily activities. The verse serves as a reminder of the harmony in nature and the divine design behind it, illustrating how everything has its time and place in the world.

How to apply Psalms 104:22 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of rest and routine in our own lives. Just as animals have their times for activity and rest, we too should find balance in our daily schedules. Taking time to rest and recharge is essential for our well-being and productivity, reminding us to honor the natural rhythms of life.

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.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

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

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 104:22

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 104:22

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 104:22 mean?

Psalms 104:22 describes the daily behavior of animals in relation to the sun. It illustrates how they come out to start their day when the sun rises and retreat to their dens as the sun sets, highlighting the natural order established by God.

What is the meaning of 'gather themselves together' in Psalms 104:22?

The phrase 'gather themselves together' refers to animals coming out of their hiding places to be active during the day. It emphasizes the communal aspect of their behavior as they prepare for daily activities.

How does Psalms 104:22 relate to rest?

Psalms 104:22 highlights the importance of rest by showing that animals have specific times for activity and retreat. This serves as a reminder for us to find balance in our own lives between work and rest.

What themes are present in Psalms 104:22?

Key themes in Psalms 104:22 include nature's rhythm, divine order, animal behavior, and the cycle of day and night. It also emphasizes the importance of rest and the harmony of creation.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.