Psalms 139:14

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well.

I will praise {H3034} thee; for I am fearfully {H3372} and wonderfully made {H6395}: marvellous {H6381} are thy works {H4639}; and that my soul {H5315} knoweth {H3045} right well {H3966}.

I thank you because I am awesomely made, wonderfully; your works are wonders -I know this very well.

I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works, and I know this very well.

I will give thanks unto thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Wonderful are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.

Commentary

Psalms 139:14 is a profound declaration of praise from King David, celebrating God's intricate and awe-inspiring creation of humanity. This verse is a cornerstone for understanding our inherent worth and dignity, rooted in the divine craftsmanship of our Maker.

Context of Psalms 139:14

Psalm 139 stands as a magnificent meditation on God's omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence. David marvels at the Lord's intimate knowledge of his every thought and path (Psalm 139:1-3), His inescapable presence (Psalm 139:7-10), and His powerful creative hand. Verses 13-16 specifically focus on God's meticulous involvement in forming David in his mother's womb, emphasizing that human life is not a random occurrence but a divinely orchestrated miracle. Verse 14, therefore, is a direct response of worship to this incredible truth of personal creation.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Craftsmanship and Intricate Design: The phrase "fearfully and wonderfully made" highlights the incredible complexity, precision, and beauty of the human body and spirit. It suggests that our very being is a testament to God's unparalleled engineering and artistry.
  • Basis for Praise and Worship: David's opening declaration, "I will praise thee," directly links his worship to the understanding of God's creative work in him. Our existence itself is a reason to give glory to God.
  • Personal Knowledge and Affirmation: "My soul knoweth right well" indicates a deep, personal conviction of this truth. It's not just intellectual assent but an experiential understanding of God's intimate involvement in one's life. This profound awareness brings a sense of security and purpose.
  • Inherent Value of Human Life: If God meticulously forms each individual with such care and wonder, it inherently bestows immense value upon every human life, from conception onward. This concept is foundational to understanding human dignity, echoing the truth that humanity is made in God's own image (Genesis 1:27).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "fearfully and wonderfully made" captures the essence of the original Hebrew:

  • Fearfully: From the Hebrew word yare' (ื™ึธืจึตื), which conveys a sense of reverential awe, profound respect, and even dread in the presence of something magnificent and powerful. It doesn't imply terror, but rather a solemn wonder at the immense power and wisdom displayed in creation.
  • Wonderfully made: From the Hebrew root pala' (ืคึธึผืœึธื), meaning "to be distinct, set apart, extraordinary, marvelous, miraculous." It speaks of something beyond ordinary comprehension, a work that is astonishing and unique.

Together, these words emphasize that our creation is not merely good, but astonishingly intricate and unique, demanding a response of awe and praise.

Practical Application

Psalms 139:14 offers profound comfort and guidance for modern life:

  • Source of Self-Worth: In a world that often measures worth by external achievements or appearance, this verse reminds us that our value is intrinsic, given by our Creator. We are not accidents, but divinely purposed beings. This can be a powerful antidote to low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy.
  • Appreciation for Life: It encourages a deep appreciation for the miracle of life, both our own and that of others. Understanding God's intricate design can foster respect for the human body and mind, motivating us to care for ourselves and others.
  • Motivation for Praise: Knowing that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" should naturally lead to a life of worship and gratitude. Our very existence is a living testimony to God's greatness, prompting us to praise Him for His marvelous works.
  • Trust in God's Plan: If God was so intimately involved in our formation, He surely has a plan and purpose for our lives. This perspective builds trust in His leading and provision, knowing that He knew us even before we were born (Jeremiah 1:5).
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 1:26

    ยถ And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

  • Genesis 1:27

    So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

  • Psalms 111:2

    The works of the LORD [are] great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.

  • Psalms 104:24

    O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

  • Psalms 92:4

    For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.

  • Psalms 92:5

    O LORD, how great are thy works! [and] thy thoughts are very deep.

  • Job 5:9

    Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number: