Psalms 147:9
He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Psalms 147:9
He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
What's easily missed here is that the Psalmist highlights the young ravens because they're often considered worthless and even abandoned by their parents. This detail emphasizes that God's provision isn't just for the useful or the obvious, but extends even to the most despised and seemingly forgotten creatures, calling out to Him in their need.
The psalm celebrates God's power in restoring Jerusalem and caring for His people, highlighting His grand acts of creation and sustenance. Immediately after praising God's knowledge and control over the stars, the text shifts to His provision for the animal kingdom, emphasizing that even the most overlooked creatures, like young ravens, are not forgotten. This focus on God's care for the least important illustrates His abundant goodness and commitment to those who fear Him.
When we look at the animal kingdom, who truly catches God's eye? It might surprise you.
The psalmist points to the young ravens, often seen as lowly or even unclean birds, especially by the Jewish people. These birds are not particularly useful to humans, and some ancient traditions even suggested their parents abandoned them early. Yet, God provides for them. This isn't just about birds; it's a powerful statement about God's expansive care. He doesn't just provide for the strong, the useful, or the 'clean' in society. His provision reaches the most unlikely, the most neglected, and those who seem to have no one else looking out for them.
That distinct, sometimes irritating, cry of a young bird – does God notice?
The verse highlights the young ravens 'that cry.' This imagery speaks to more than just their vocalizations; it represents their need, their dependence, and their plea for sustenance. God's provision isn't a passive overflow; it's a direct response to the 'cries' of His creation. Whether it's the instinctual call of an animal or the deeper pleas of a human heart, God is attentive. This extends from the basic needs of beasts to the spiritual needs of people. It means that even when we feel unheard, our genuine needs and cries are known to the One who sustains all life.
Beyond the individual cries, what grand truth about God does this reveal?
The psalmist isn't just listing random acts of feeding; he's painting a picture of God's comprehensive rule over all creation. From the general provision for 'the beast' to the specific care for 'the young ravens,' it all points to a divine order and sustaining power. God is the ultimate source of life and sustenance for every living thing. This isn't limited to physical food; it speaks to a God who actively governs the world and ensures its continuation. His power is immense ('mighty to make'), but His goodness is also intimately engaged with the needs of His creation, big and small, noble and despised.
ellicottPsalms 147:9: "He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry."
(9) Comp. Psalm 104:14 ; Psalm 145:15 ; Job 38:41 ; Luke 12:24 . The proper attitude towards one who is thus “great to grant as mighty to make,” is not conceit of wisdom and strength, but humble dependence and trust.
pulpitPsalms 147:9: "He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry."
Verse 9. - He giveth to the beast his food (comp. Psalm 104:27; Psalm 145:15, 16). The constant supplies of their own proper food to all classes of animals are among the principal proofs of God's power and goodness. And to the young ravens which cry. Even the unclean raven, with his harsh croak and inelegant form, is not neglected (comp. Luke 12:24, "God feedeth them").
What's easily missed here is that the Psalmist highlights the young ravens because they're often considered worthless and even abandoned by their parents. This detail emphasizes that God's provision isn't just for the useful or the obvious, but extends even to the most despised and seemingly forgotten creatures, calling out to Him in their need.
The psalm celebrates God's power in restoring Jerusalem and caring for His people, highlighting His grand acts of creation and sustenance. Immediately after praising God's knowledge and control over the stars, the text shifts to His provision for the animal kingdom, emphasizing that even the most overlooked creatures, like young ravens, are not forgotten. This focus on God's care for the least important illustrates His abundant goodness and commitment to those who fear Him.
The psalm celebrates God's power in restoring Jerusalem and caring for His people, highlighting His grand acts of creation and sustenance. Immediately after praising God's knowledge and control over the stars, the text shifts to His provision for the animal kingdom, emphasizing that even the most overlooked creatures, like young ravens, are not forgotten. This focus on God's care for the least important illustrates His abundant goodness and commitment to those who fear Him.
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Ask a follow-up
Ask Sola things like:
Live chat about Psalms 147:9 is available in the Sola app.
"He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry." — What's easily missed here is that the Psalmist highlights the young ravens because they're often considered worthless and even abandoned by their parents. This detail emphasizes that God's provisio…