Old Testament

Psalms 104:5

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

You laid the foundations of the earth, so that it should not be moved forever.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

What Psalms 104:5 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes God's role as the creator and sustainer of the earth. By laying the foundations of the earth, God established a stable and enduring world. The phrase 'should not be moved forever' suggests that the earth is designed to remain in its place, reflecting God's power and intention in creation. This stability contrasts with the transient nature of human life and the world around us. The verse invites us to recognize the divine order and purpose behind creation, encouraging us to trust in God's sovereignty over the universe. It serves as a reminder that, despite the chaos and changes we may experience, the foundational aspects of creation are secure in God's hands. This assurance can provide comfort and hope, reinforcing the belief that God is in control and that His creation is purposeful and lasting.

How to apply Psalms 104:5 to your life

Understanding that God laid the foundations of the earth can inspire us to trust in His plans for our lives. When faced with uncertainty, we can find peace in knowing that God has established a stable world. This assurance encourages us to seek His guidance and remain grounded in faith.

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 104:5

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 104:5

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 104:5 mean about the earth's foundations?

Psalms 104:5 highlights God's role as the creator who established the earth's foundations, ensuring its stability and permanence. This verse conveys that the earth is designed to remain in its place, reflecting God's power and intentionality in creation. It reassures believers that despite life's uncertainties, the foundational aspects of the world are secure under God's sovereignty.

How can Psalms 104:5 provide comfort in difficult times?

This verse serves as a reminder of God's control over creation, offering comfort during chaotic or uncertain times. By recognizing that God has laid the earth's foundations, we can trust that He has a purpose for our lives and the world around us. This assurance encourages us to seek His guidance and remain grounded in faith, knowing that His plans are stable and enduring.

What themes are present in Psalms 104:5?

Psalms 104:5 encompasses several key themes, including God as Creator, the stability of creation, divine sovereignty, and the enduring nature of the earth's foundations. It emphasizes the purposeful design behind creation and invites believers to acknowledge God's authority and control over the universe, reinforcing the belief that everything is part of His divine plan.

How does Psalms 104:5 relate to human life?

The verse contrasts the enduring nature of the earth with the transient aspects of human life. While the world is stable and secure in God's hands, human experiences can be fleeting and uncertain. This contrast encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and find peace in His eternal plans, reminding us that our lives are part of a larger, purposeful creation.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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