Psalms 115:16 Meaning and Explanation
“The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD's: but the earth hath he given to the children of men.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God owns the heavens, but He has entrusted the earth to humanity.
The Context of Psalms 115:16
The cosmic order: heaven belongs to God; earth is humanity's sphere of action.
What Does Psalms 115:16 Mean?
This verse establishes cosmic hierarchy. The heavens belong wholly to God—His realm, His domain, the seat of His throne. But the earth, the material world where humans live and work, is 'given' to humans as a stewardship.
God retains ownership and ultimate authority ('the heavens are the LORD's'), but He has delegated the earth to humanity. This is not abandonment; it is trust. Humans are caretakers of what God has given, accountable to Him for how they steward it.
Psalms 115:16 in the Original Language
נָתַן (natan), 'given' — to entrust, to hand over into the care or possession of another, indicating both generosity and expectation of responsible use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 115:16
What does Psalms 115:16 mean?
God owns the heavens, but He has entrusted the earth to humanity.
What is the context of Psalms 115:16?
The cosmic order: heaven belongs to God; earth is humanity's sphere of action.