Psalms 139:14

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
Psalms 139:14 is a profound declaration of praise from David, celebrating God's meticulous and awe-inspiring craftsmanship in the creation of human beings. It articulates a deep, personal conviction that one's very existence is a testament to divine wisdom and power, inspiring a response of worship and establishing an intrinsic value for all human life rooted in God's marvelous works.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 139 is a deeply personal and theological meditation on God's omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence. The psalm begins with David marveling at the Lord's exhaustive knowledge of his thoughts, words, and ways ([Psalm 139:1-6](/psalms/139-1 "Psalm 139:1-6 - God's Omniscience")). He then shifts to God's inescapable presence, acknowledging that no place, not even the deepest parts of the earth or the farthest reaches of the heavens, can hide one from His Spirit ([Psalm 139:7-12](/psalms/139-7 "Psalm 139:7-12 - God's Omnipresence")). Verses 13-16, where our focal verse resides, specifically pivot to God's active and intimate involvement in David's formation in the womb, highlighting divine sovereignty over life's very inception. This section serves as the climactic evidence for God's all-encompassing knowledge and presence, culminating in David's response of praise in [Psalm 139:14](/psalms/139-14 "Psalm 139:14 - Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"). The subsequent verses then transition to David's plea for God to search his heart and lead him in the way everlasting ([Psalm 139:23-24](/psalms/139-23 "Psalm 139:23-24 - A Prayer for Guidance")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Composed by David, a king and psalmist of ancient Israel, Psalm 139 reflects a deeply personal relationship with Yahweh, characteristic of many psalms. In the ancient Near East, the concept of a deity forming an individual in the womb was not unique, but the *intimacy* and *personal knowledge* attributed to the God of Israel in this process set it apart. Unlike impersonal deities or fate, the God of Israel is portrayed as actively and lovingly involved in the intricate design of each person. The cultural understanding of "the womb" was often seen as a mysterious, hidden place, making God's knowledge of one there even more profound. This perspective stands in stark contrast to any notion of human life being accidental or insignificant, reinforcing the Israelite understanding of humanity as uniquely created in God's image, as detailed in [Genesis 1:27](/genesis/1-27 "Genesis 1:27 - Humanity Created in God's Image").
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 139 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Craftsmanship and Intricate Design**, portraying God as the ultimate architect and artist of human life. The complexity of the human body and spirit is presented as a direct testament to His unparalleled wisdom and power. Secondly, it establishes the **Inherent Value and Dignity of Human Life**, asserting that every individual, from conception, is a divinely purposed and meticulously formed miracle, not a random occurrence. This foundational truth has profound implications for ethics and self-worth. Thirdly, the verse highlights **God's Personal and Intimate Knowledge** of each individual, extending even to one's unformed substance, reinforcing the theme of divine omniscience seen throughout the psalm. Finally, it serves as a direct **Basis for Praise and Worship**, as David's declaration of praise is a natural and inevitable response to this profound understanding of God's creative work within him, echoing the call to worship found in [Psalm 145:3](/psalms/145-3 "Psalm 145:3 - Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fearfully (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** This word (H3372) is a primitive root meaning "to fear," but morally, "to revere." It implies a sense of profound awe, solemn wonder, and even dread in the presence of something magnificent, powerful, or beyond human comprehension. In this context, it does not suggest terror, but rather a reverential astonishment at the immense power, wisdom, and intricate detail displayed in God's creative work within the human body. It speaks to the staggering complexity and delicate balance of human physiology, which inspires a respectful and humbling sense of wonder.
* **Wonderfully made (Hebrew, _pâlâh'_ / _pâlâʼ'_):** The KJV translates two related Hebrew words here. "Wonderfully made" comes from _pâlâh_ (H6395), meaning "to distinguish (literally or figuratively); to show marvelous, separate, set apart, sever, make wonderfully." The subsequent "marvellous" (H6381) comes from _pâlâʼ_, a primitive root meaning "to separate, i.e., distinguish; by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful." Together, these words emphasize that human creation is not merely good or functional, but distinct, extraordinary, and miraculous. It signifies a work that is astonishing, unique, and beyond ordinary human comprehension, set apart by divine design.
* **Knoweth right well (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_ / _mᵉʼôd'_):** "Knoweth" is from _yâdaʻ_ (H3045), a primitive root meaning "to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively, instruction, designation, punishment, etc.)." It implies a deep, intimate, and experiential knowledge, not merely intellectual assent. "Right well" is from _mᵉʼôd_ (H3966), meaning "vehemence; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or superlative; especially when repeated)." When combined, "knoweth right well" signifies a profound, certain, and thoroughly understood conviction. David's soul does not just vaguely know, but possesses an undeniable, deeply felt assurance of God's marvelous works in his creation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will praise thee":** This opening clause is a direct, volitional declaration of worship. It signifies David's intentional and joyful response to God, not as a duty, but as an overflow of a heart captivated by divine truth. This praise is the natural outcome of the profound realization that follows.
* **"for I am fearfully and wonderfully made":** This is the primary reason for David's praise. The human being is a work of divine art, crafted with such intricate complexity and astonishing design that it evokes reverential awe ("fearfully") and stands out as a unique, miraculous creation ("wonderfully made"). This clause affirms the intrinsic value and divine origin of human life.
* **"marvellous are thy works":** This serves as a parallel affirmation, broadening the scope from David's individual creation to God's works in general, yet still implicitly linked to the marvel of human formation. The term "marvellous" reiterates the extraordinary, miraculous nature of God's creative acts, reinforcing the idea that His handiwork is consistently astonishing and beyond human comparison.
* **"and that my soul knoweth right well":** This concluding clause underscores the personal and deeply held conviction of the psalmist. It is not a mere intellectual acknowledgment but an experiential, profound, and certain understanding that resonates within his very being ("my soul"). This deep knowing provides a foundation of security and purpose, affirming the reality of God's intimate involvement in his life.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 139:14 employs several powerful literary devices. The phrase "fearfully and wonderfully made" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extraordinary nature of God's creative work, suggesting a level of complexity and beauty that almost defies description. It also functions as a form of **Metaphor**, implicitly likening God to a master craftsman or artist who meticulously designs and forms human beings. The structure of the verse exhibits **Parallelism**, particularly between "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" and "marvellous are thy works," where the second clause reinforces and expands upon the first, broadening the scope from personal creation to God's general creative power. The entire verse is imbued with a tone of **Awe and Wonder**, reflecting David's profound reverence and astonishment at God's omnipotence and intimate knowledge, which is further emphasized by the concluding declaration that "my soul knoweth right well," signifying a deep, internal conviction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 139:14 is a cornerstone for biblical anthropology, establishing humanity's inherent dignity and worth not based on achievement or social status, but on divine origin and meticulous craftsmanship. It challenges any notion of human life as accidental or insignificant, asserting that each individual is a unique, divinely purposed miracle. This truth forms the bedrock for understanding human rights, the sanctity of life from conception, and the call to stewardship of our bodies and minds. The verse also highlights God's personal and intimate involvement with His creation, demonstrating His active presence and knowledge even before birth, which is a profound source of comfort and security for believers.

* [Genesis 1:27](/genesis/1-27 "Genesis 1:27 - Humanity Created in God's Image")
* [Jeremiah 1:5](/jeremiah/1-5 "Jeremiah 1:5 - God Knew Jeremiah Before Birth")
* [Isaiah 44:24](/isaiah/44-24 "Isaiah 44:24 - God as Creator and Redeemer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often struggles with issues of self-worth, identity, and the value of human life, Psalms 139:14 offers a profound, unchanging truth: our worth is intrinsic, divinely bestowed, and not dependent on external validation, performance, or appearance. Understanding that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" by an all-knowing, all-powerful, and intimately involved Creator can transform our self-perception, fostering a healthy self-esteem rooted in God's design rather than human standards. This truth also cultivates a deep appreciation for the miracle of life itself, inspiring us to care for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit and to respect the sanctity of all human life, from its earliest stages. Moreover, it should ignite a spirit of worship and gratitude, as our very existence becomes a living testimony to God's magnificent works, prompting us to live lives that honor our divine Maker.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of being "fearfully and wonderfully made" impact your self-perception and sense of worth?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's intricate design in humanity lead to greater appreciation for others and the sanctity of life?**
* **How does this verse inspire you to praise God, not just for what He does, but for who He is as your Creator?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live in a way that honors the divine craftsmanship of your body and mind?**

### FAQ

**What does "fearfully and wonderfully made" truly mean?**

Answer: The phrase "fearfully and wonderfully made" signifies that human beings are created with astonishing complexity, intricate design, and profound uniqueness by God. "Fearfully" (from the Hebrew _yârêʼ_) conveys a sense of reverential awe and solemn wonder, acknowledging the immense power and wisdom displayed in our creation. It doesn't mean to be afraid, but to be filled with respectful astonishment at God's handiwork. "Wonderfully made" (from the Hebrew _pâlâh_) means to be set apart, distinct, and miraculous, highlighting that our formation is an extraordinary and unparalleled act of divine craftsmanship. Together, these words emphasize that every human life is a miracle, meticulously designed by God, inspiring both awe and praise for our Creator.

**How does Psalms 139:14 relate to modern scientific understanding of human biology?**

Answer: While Psalms 139:14 is a theological statement, not a scientific one, its affirmation of intricate design resonates remarkably with modern scientific discoveries. As we delve deeper into the complexities of DNA, cellular structures, the human brain, and the delicate balance of biological systems, the "fearfully and wonderfully made" aspect becomes even more apparent. The psalmist, without the aid of microscopes or genetic sequencing, intuitively grasped the profound and astonishing complexity of human life, attributing it to divine wisdom. This verse suggests that the more we understand about ourselves, the more reasons we find to marvel at the Creator's genius, recognizing that scientific discovery often illuminates the "how" of God's "marvelous works" without negating the "who" behind them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 139:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. While the verse celebrates God's original creation of humanity, it also implicitly points to the need for a new creation, as humanity's "wonderful" design was marred by sin. Jesus, as the perfect Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), perfectly embodies the "fearfully and wonderfully made" human being, without blemish or sin. His incarnation itself is the ultimate demonstration of God's intimate involvement in human flesh, as the eternal Word became flesh and dwelt among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Through His atoning work on the cross and His resurrection, Christ not only redeems fallen humanity but also inaugurates a new creation, restoring the dignity and purpose lost in Eden. Believers are now "new creations" in Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), being conformed to His image ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to Christ's Image")), and are being continually "renewed in knowledge after the image of their Creator" ([Colossians 3:10](/colossians/3-10 "Colossians 3:10 - Renewed in Knowledge After the Creator's Image")). Thus, the praise of Psalms 139:14 for our original creation is amplified by the even greater wonder of our re-creation and redemption in Christ, who is the ultimate expression of God's marvelous works.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 1:26

¶ 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: