תהלים, פרק ק״ד, פסוק י״ח

Psalms 104:18Sefaria

הָרִ֣ים הַ֭גְּבֹהִים לַיְּעֵלִ֑ים סְ֝לָעִ֗ים מַחְסֶ֥ה לַֽשְׁפַנִּֽים׃

The natural world stands as a powerful testament to the careful providence of God, who designs perfect environments for every living creature. He provides each animal with a habitat precisely suited to its unique nature, physical dimensions, and daily needs [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. Following a focus on the tall trees that shelter the birds, the attention shifts to the wild creatures that roam the earth [רד״ק, מאירי].

High mountain peaks naturally attract certain wild animals, such as the ibex, which instinctively seek out these elevated areas to establish their homes [מצודת ציון, רד״ק, מאירי]. At first glance, these rugged summits might seem useless, as they are entirely unsuitable for planting or growing crops. However, they were intentionally created for a specific purpose: to serve as a designated habitat and dwelling space for these creatures [אלשיך, ביאור שטיינזלץ, אבן עזרא]. Furthermore, the towering heights act as a natural fortress, offering them crucial protection from roaming predators [מלבי״ם].

Similarly, the rocky terrain provides a necessary sanctuary for other small animals, like the hyrax [מצודת ציון]. Because of their inherent physical weakness, these creatures desperately need a secure hiding place [מלבי״ם]. Driven by a deep-seated fear of humans, they often flee from the lower forests and escape up into the mountainous regions [מאירי]. The rocks scattered across the mountains [ביאור שטיינזלץ] form natural caves and deep crevices that offer them a perfect shelter [רד״ק]. This type of refuge acts as a protective canopy, providing a place of shade and hiding where either a person or an animal can safely take cover from heavy rain and rushing water [רש״י].

Ultimately, every single element of creation, no matter how large or small, exists to provide a clear benefit. The mountains and rocks, formed on the first day of creation, were designed to sustain animal life. In turn, this entire harmonious ecological system is meant to serve humanity, the pinnacle of all created beings [רד״ק].

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עזרו לנו להגדיל תורה ולהאדירה. תחזוקת האתר והשבחת התוכן כרוכות בהוצאות מרובות. תרומה קטנה שלכם תסייע לנו להחזיק את הפלטפורמה ותהפוך אתכם לשותפים מלאים בהנגשת חוכמת המקרא.

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