Psalm 8 7

Psalm 8:7 kjv

All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;

Psalm 8:7 nkjv

All sheep and oxen? Even the beasts of the field,

Psalm 8:7 niv

all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild,

Psalm 8:7 esv

all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field,

Psalm 8:7 nlt

the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,

Psalm 8 verses

Psalm 8 7 Meaning

Psalm 8:7 elaborates on the extent of the dominion God has bestowed upon humanity, as previously stated in Psalm 8:6. It specifically lists categories of animals that are placed under human authority, signifying humanity's unique role as God's vice-regents over the created order. The verse comprehensively includes both domesticated animals (sheep and oxen), crucial for human livelihood, and wild animals (beasts of the field), demonstrating the breadth of this delegated power over terrestrial creatures.

Psalm 8 7 Context

Psalm 8 is a psalm of praise to Yahweh, marveling at His glorious name and power, evident in creation. The immediate context of verse 7 builds upon the previous verses that celebrate humanity's unique, elevated position within God's creation. Verses 1-2 establish God's majesty and power, even through the simple praise of children. Verses 3-5 highlight the psalmist's wonder at God's remembrance of seemingly insignificant humanity, and the great honor and glory with which God has crowned humankind, making them "a little lower than the angels." Verse 6 declares that God has given humanity "dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet." Verse 7 then serves as a detailed enumeration of what is included in "all things," specifically focusing on the terrestrial animals.

Historically and culturally, in ancient Israel, livestock (sheep, goats, cattle/oxen) were central to life—for food, clothing, labor (plowing), and sacrifices. Wild animals ("beasts of the field") represented a force that could be dangerous, but were also part of God's creation to be stewarded or managed. This verse contrasts sharply with pagan contemporary beliefs where animals or natural forces might be deified or seen as autonomous, uncontrollable powers. Instead, the Psalmist declares they are all subordinate to humanity, by divine appointment, within a monotheistic framework where only God is supreme.

Psalm 8 7 Word analysis

• all: (kullam - כֻּלָּם) This adverb emphasizes comprehensiveness. It signifies that the dominion is not partial or selective but applies to the entirety of the specified categories of animals, reinforcing the absolute nature of God's delegated authority to humanity.

• sheep: (tso'n - צֹאן) Refers to flocks, encompassing both sheep and goats. These were common domesticated animals, vital for wool, milk, meat, and sacrifice in ancient Israel. They represent the passive, provision-giving aspect of animal life under human care.

• and oxen: (uveqar - וּבָקָר) Refers to cattle, including bulls and cows. These were strong, working animals used for plowing, transport, and meat, also important for sacrifices. They represent the active, labor-providing aspect of animal life, essential for agriculture and survival.

• and also: (vegam - וְגַם) This conjunction acts as an intensifier and expansion, linking the previously mentioned domesticated animals to a broader category. It signifies an addition, underscoring that the dominion extends even further than what is immediately useful to human daily life.

• the beasts: (bahamot - בַּהֲמוֹת) This term is the plural of behemah, a general term for land animals, often domestic quadrupeds or large animals. However, when qualified by "of the field," it distinctly refers to wild animals. This signifies the more untamed, undomesticated segment of animal creation.

• of the field: (saday - שָׂדָי) This phrase specifies the behamot as those living in the open country or wilderness. This critical modifier differentiates them from domesticated livestock and broadens the scope of human dominion beyond merely useful or managed animals to encompass the entire range of land-dwelling creatures.

• Words-group by words-group analysis:

  • all sheep and oxen: This grouping refers to domesticated animals. The emphasis is on their comprehensive submission ("all") and their dual function: the gentler "sheep" (for passive provision like wool and milk) and the stronger "oxen" (for active labor like plowing). This highlights the foundational economic and sacrificial significance of these creatures within human society, directly subject to human will and care.
  • and also the beasts of the field: This group expands the scope of dominion from the tamed and economically vital animals to include the untamed, wild creatures dwelling in their natural habitats. The "and also" highlights the broader extent of human authority. This signifies that God's delegated rule is not limited to what humanity has managed to domesticate but encompasses the full spectrum of animal life on land. This holistic dominion mirrors the comprehensive nature of God's own creative power.

Psalm 8 7 Bonus section

• Christological Fulfillment: While Psalm 8 refers to humanity's intended dominion, the New Testament, particularly Hebrews 2:6-9 and 1 Corinthians 15:27, clarifies that this full and perfect dominion is ultimately achieved and demonstrated by Jesus Christ, the perfect "Son of Man." He truly has "all things put under his feet," perfectly embodying the Adamic mandate. Humanity's fallen state prevents us from fully exercising this dominion now, but Christ's redemptive work guarantees its ultimate restoration under His Lordship.
• Ethical Implications: The comprehensive nature of dominion outlined in Psalm 8:7 implies a profound responsibility. It is not an invitation to abuse or wanton destruction but rather a call to stewardship and care. Just as God cares for creation (Ps 104), so too should humanity exercise its delegated authority with wisdom, reflecting God's own benevolent rule. This involves proper care for animals, sustainable use of resources, and respect for life within God's creation.
• Tension of Dominion in a Fallen World: Despite the clear declaration of dominion, experience shows that not "everything" is currently under humanity's feet. Wild animals still pose dangers, and humanity often struggles with nature. Romans 8:19-22 speaks to creation groaning under the effects of the fall. Psalm 8:7 points to the ideal and original intention of creation, a state to be fully realized through Christ's redemptive work.
• Wisdom Literature Connection: Proverbs 12:10 states, "The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel." This wisdom reinforces the ethical demands of dominion described in Psalm 8:7, emphasizing a righteous approach to the animals placed under human care.

Psalm 8 7 Commentary

Psalm 8:7 specifically details the breadth of humanity's delegated authority over the animal kingdom, serving as a practical elaboration of the grand statement in the preceding verse. The inclusion of "sheep and oxen" first underscores the immediate and tangible aspects of human dominion, rooted in the agrarian realities of the ancient world. These animals were not just possessions but fundamental components of livelihood and religious life (as sacrificial animals), representing the core of human interaction with and utilization of creation. The subsequent mention of "the beasts of the field," often wild and untamable, broadens this dominion significantly, extending human influence even over forces that are not directly controlled but still exist within the framework of God's submission to humanity. This verse paints a picture of humanity as stewards over all terrestrial animals, not just for utility, but as representatives of God's creative order. While this dominion has been marred by the fall (as reflected in the struggle and wildness often encountered in creation), the ideal remains. In Christ, the perfect Son of Man, this dominion is perfectly realized and foreshadows a restored creation where perfect harmony will once again reign (Isa 11:6-9). This verse thus calls for responsible stewardship rather than exploitation, recognizing that humanity's authority is derived from and accountable to the Creator.