Psalms 45:14

KJV

She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

She shall be brought {H2986}{H8714)} unto the king {H4428} in raiment of needlework {H7553}: the virgins {H1330} her companions {H7464} that follow {H310} her shall be brought {H935}{H8716)} unto thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

In brocade, she will be led to the king, to you, with the virgins in her retinue.

Berean Standard Bible

In colorful garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions are brought before you.

American Standard Version

She shall be led unto the king in broidered work: The virgins her companions that follow her Shall be brought unto thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 45:14 vividly portrays the royal bride's magnificent procession, adorned in meticulously crafted "raiment of needlework," as she is brought into the presence of the king. She is not alone, but accompanied by a joyous retinue of "virgins her companions." This verse, set within a royal wedding psalm, beautifully foreshadows the glorious presentation of the Church, the bride of Christ, to her divine King, highlighting themes of purity, preparation, communal joy, and ultimate union.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 45 is a unique "Maskil" (instructive psalm) and a "Song of Loves" (שִׁיר יְדִידֹת, _shir yedidōt_), functioning as a royal wedding ode. It is divided into sections: an introduction (v. 1), praise for the king (vv. 2-9), and an address to the queen/bride (vv. 10-15), concluding with a blessing on their offspring and future fame (vv. 16-17). Verse 14 specifically describes the culmination of the bridal procession, following the bride's departure from her father's house and her preparation (vv. 10-13). It marks the moment of her formal presentation to the king, a pivotal scene in the narrative flow that emphasizes her honor and the splendor of the occasion. The shift from addressing the king in the third person ("unto the king") to the second person ("unto thee") in the latter half of the verse is a significant literary feature, hinting at a divine dimension beyond a mere earthly monarch.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Near Eastern royal weddings were not merely private affairs but significant political and social events, often involving elaborate public ceremonies. The "raiment of needlework" (רִקְמָה, _riqmāh_) signifies a garment of immense value, intricate design, and luxurious quality, indicative of the bride's high status and the wealth of the royal court. Such garments were often embroidered with gold or silver threads, reflecting the pinnacle of artistic skill and opulence. The presence of "virgins her companions" was customary for royal brides, serving as attendants, a bridal party, or a retinue of honor. Their inclusion underscores the communal joy and public celebration surrounding the marriage, emphasizing that the bride enters her new life not in isolation but with a supportive and celebratory community. These elements reflect the cultural importance placed on honor, beauty, and public display in ancient royal courts.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes within [Psalm 45](/psalms/45 "Psalm 45 - A Royal Wedding Song") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Royal Splendor and Divine Favor**, portraying a king of unparalleled majesty and a queen presented with ultimate honor, which is later applied to Christ's divine kingship in [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Divine Kingship"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Bride's Preparation and Purity**, symbolized by her exquisite attire and the designation of her companions as "virgins," pointing to the spiritual readiness and holiness expected of God's people. Thirdly, the inclusion of "companions" underscores the theme of **Community and Fellowship**, illustrating that the journey to the King is a shared one, celebrated within a collective body. Most profoundly, [Psalm 45:14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Royal Bride's Procession") serves as a powerful **Messianic Foreshadowing**, prefiguring the ultimate union of Christ (the King) with His Church (the bride). This imagery resonates deeply with New Testament passages describing the Church as being prepared and presented to Christ as a [glorious bride without spot or wrinkle](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ Presents the Church to Himself") and the joyous anticipation of the [marriage of the Lamb](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7 - The Marriage of the Lamb").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Virgins (Hebrew, _bᵉthûwlâh'_):** This Hebrew word (H1330) refers to an unmarried woman, specifically one who is sexually untouched. In the context of the royal wedding, it emphasizes the purity and integrity of the bride's companions, reflecting the high moral standards and honor associated with the royal court. Spiritually, it symbolizes the purity and devotion expected of those who follow Christ, having kept themselves unstained from the world.
* **Raiment of needlework (Hebrew, _riqmāh'_):** This Hebrew term (H7553) denotes richly embroidered, variegated fabric, often with intricate patterns or designs. In ancient cultures, such garments were highly prized, indicating extreme skill in craftsmanship, great value, and often, royal or priestly status. It suggests a garment that is not merely beautiful but is the product of significant effort, artistry, and costly materials, signifying the immense worth and splendor of the bride and the occasion. Spiritually, it symbolizes the meticulous divine work of preparing and adorning the Church with righteousness and holiness.
* **Brought (Hebrew, _yâbal'_):** The verb (H2986) is in the Hophal stem, indicating a passive action: "she shall be caused to be brought" or "she shall be led." This emphasizes that the bride's presentation is not something she accomplishes on her own but is an act performed for her, by others, to the king. In a spiritual sense, it highlights God's sovereign initiative in bringing His people to Himself, rather than humanity achieving salvation by its own efforts.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"She shall be brought unto the king":** This phrase establishes the formal and honored presentation of the bride. It signifies her transition from her former household into the royal presence, a moment of profound significance, acceptance, and integration into the royal family. It underscores the king's authority and the bride's submission, yet also her elevated status as she is deemed worthy of such a grand entrance.
* **"in raiment of needlework":** This specifies the bride's attire, emphasizing its unparalleled beauty, richness, and symbolic value. The "raiment of needlework" is not just clothing but a statement of her purity, honor, and the immense care taken in her preparation. It speaks to her worthiness and the splendor befitting a royal consort, reflecting the glory and righteousness with which the Church is adorned by Christ.
* **"the virgins her companions that follow her":** This introduces the bride's retinue, a group of pure, unmarried women who accompany her. Their presence highlights the communal aspect of the celebration and the bride's esteemed position. They are not merely observers but participants in the procession, sharing in the joy and honor of the event, symbolizing the fellowship of believers who accompany the Church into the King's presence.
* **"shall be brought unto thee":** This is a crucial shift in address. While the first part of the verse refers to "the king" in the third person, the latter part shifts to "thee" in the second person. This direct address to the King, which many interpreters see as a divine address, elevates the psalm beyond a purely earthly context, strongly hinting at a messianic interpretation where the King is ultimately God Himself or His anointed Messiah. This implies that the companions, like the bride, are ultimately presented to the divine King.

#### Literary Devices
[Psalm 45:14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Royal Bride's Procession") is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid mental picture of a grand royal procession. The "raiment of needlework" evokes sensory details of exquisite texture, intricate patterns, and shimmering quality, appealing to sight and touch. The movement of the bride and her companions "brought unto the king" creates a dynamic scene of solemnity and joy. The verse employs powerful **Symbolism**, where the earthly king and bride become types for the divine King (Christ) and His spiritual bride (the Church). The "raiment of needlework" symbolizes the righteousness and holiness with which Christ clothes His people, while the "virgins her companions" symbolize the collective body of believers. Furthermore, the psalm as a whole, and this verse in particular, functions as **Anticipation** or **Foreshadowing**, looking forward to the ultimate, eternal union between Christ and His redeemed people, a theme that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Psalm 45:14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Royal Procession") while rooted in the context of an ancient royal wedding, carries profound theological weight, especially when viewed through a Christological lens. It speaks to God's meticulous preparation of His people for an intimate relationship with Himself. Just as the earthly bride is adorned and presented, so too does God sanctify and beautify His Church, making her ready for eternal communion with Christ. This preparation is not superficial but involves an internal transformation, a spiritual "raiment of needlework" woven by the Holy Spirit and Christ's righteousness. The communal aspect, with the "virgins her companions," underscores the corporate nature of salvation and worship; believers are not saved in isolation but are part of a larger body, journeying together towards their King. This verse ultimately points to the eschatological hope of the Church's glorious presentation to Christ, pure and blameless, at the consummation of His kingdom.

* [Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7-8 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb and the Bride's Fine Linen")
* [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love and Sanctification of the Church")
* [Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Garments of Salvation and Robes of Righteousness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Psalm 45:14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Bride's Adornment") offers a rich tapestry for personal and communal reflection, inviting believers to consider their identity and destiny as part of Christ's bride. The imagery of the meticulously prepared bride encourages us to embrace a life of spiritual purity and holiness, recognizing that our spiritual adornment comes from Christ's righteousness and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. It calls us to live in anticipation of Christ's glorious return, eagerly preparing ourselves for that day when we, as His Church, will be presented faultless before Him. Furthermore, the presence of the "companions" reminds us of the invaluable role of Christian community. Our faith journey is not meant to be solitary; we are called to encourage, support, and journey alongside fellow believers, sharing in the joy and preparation for our King. This verse inspires us to live with a sense of purpose, knowing that we are being transformed into a glorious bride, destined for eternal union with our beloved King.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "raiment of needlework" challenge or inspire my understanding of spiritual preparation and holiness?**
* **In what ways am I actively participating in the "companionship" of believers, and how does this community help prepare me for Christ's return?**
* **What does it mean for me personally to be "brought unto the King," and how does this truth shape my daily walk?**
* **How does anticipating the "marriage of the Lamb" influence my priorities and perspective on earthly life?**

### FAQ
**Is Psalm 45 primarily about an earthly king or Christ?**

Answer: While [Psalm 45](/psalms/45 "Psalm 45 - A Royal Wedding Psalm") is written as a royal wedding song for an earthly king, its elevated language, divine attributes ascribed to the king (e.g., "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever" in [Psalm 45:6](/psalms/45-6 "Psalm 45:6 - Your Throne, O God")), and the shift in address in [verse 14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Bride's Companions") ("unto thee") have led both ancient Jewish and Christian interpreters to understand it as having a profound messianic dimension. The New Testament explicitly applies [Psalm 45:6](/psalms/45-6 "Psalm 45:6 - Applied to Christ in Hebrews") to Christ in [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Deity"), confirming its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus as the divine King. Therefore, it is best understood as a psalm with a dual reference: an immediate earthly context that serves as a type or shadow for the ultimate reality of Christ and His eternal kingdom.

**What does "raiment of needlework" symbolize for believers today?**

Answer: For believers, "raiment of needlework" (רִקְמָה, _riqmāh_) symbolizes the spiritual adornment that makes the Church, the bride of Christ, beautiful and worthy of presentation to her King. This is not a beauty of human effort but a righteousness imputed by Christ and a holiness cultivated by the Holy Spirit. It signifies the "fine linen, clean and white" which is the "righteous acts of the saints" ([Revelation 19:8](/revelation/19-8 "Revelation 19:8 - The Righteous Acts of the Saints")), representing Christ's righteousness that covers us and the sanctification that transforms us. It speaks to the meticulous divine work of preparing the Church to be presented to Christ "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Purpose for His Church")).

**Who are the "virgins her companions" in a spiritual sense?**

Answer: The "virgins her companions" symbolize the broader community of believers who share in the joy and glory of Christ's kingdom. While the "bride" primarily represents the Church as a corporate body, the companions represent individual believers who are part of that collective. They are "virgins" in the sense of spiritual purity and devotion, having kept themselves unstained from the world and remaining faithful to Christ. Their presence underscores the communal aspect of salvation and the shared journey of all who belong to Christ, emphasizing that believers are brought into God's presence not in isolation but as part of a joyous, unified fellowship, participating in the ultimate celebration of the [marriage of the Lamb](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7 - The Marriage of the Lamb").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Psalms 45:14](/psalms/45-14 "Psalm 45:14 - The Royal Bride's Procession to the King") finds its most profound and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His Church. The King, whose beauty and majesty are extolled throughout [Psalm 45](/psalms/45 "Psalm 45 - A Messianic Psalm"), is ultimately Christ Himself, the divine King whose "throne, O God, is forever and ever" ([Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Eternal Throne")). The "she" who is brought to the King is the Church, His beloved bride, whom He "loved and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). The "raiment of needlework" symbolizes the righteousness of Christ imputed to believers and the holiness wrought within them by the Holy Spirit, preparing them for this divine union. The "virgins her companions" represent all individual believers who, through faith in Christ, are made pure and are privileged to join the Church in being presented to Him. This verse beautifully anticipates the eschatological reality of the [marriage supper of the Lamb](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - The Blessedness of the Marriage Supper"), where Christ's redeemed people, adorned in His righteousness, will be brought into His eternal presence, celebrating the consummation of His kingdom in unparalleled joy and glory.

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

Song Of Solomon 8:13

¶ Thou that dwellest in the gardens, the companions hearken to thy voice: cause me to hear [it].

2 Corinthians 11:2

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.

Song Of Solomon 2:7

I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake [my] love, till he please.

Song Of Solomon 1:3

Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name [is as] ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee.

Song Of Solomon 1:5

I [am] black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon.

Song Of Solomon 6:13

Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return, that we may look upon thee. What will ye see in the Shulamite? As it were the company of two armies.

Song Of Solomon 6:8

There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.