Psalms 104:1-35

Psalm PSALM—NOTE ON Psalms 104:1. The phrase “Bless the LORD, O my soul,” which opens and closes the psalm, shows that the psalm is about reasons for speaking well of God. This hymn of praise celebrates the way creation reveals God’s glory by providing so abundantly for all living things. Although it does not use many specific words from Genesis 1:1, the creation account surely influences the psalm. Genesis 1:1 uses the term “God” for the deity, stressing his role as the transcendent Creator. Psalms 104:1 primarily uses “the LORD,” the personal name of the covenant God of Israel, who is the same being as the majestic Creator (see note on Gen. 2:4). This psalm joins Psalms 8:1 as a reflection on God’s continuing commitment to, and care for, his creation.