### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gôlem**, represented by `{{H1564}}`, refers to a wrapped and unformed mass, specifically an embryo or a "substance yet being unperfect." It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use provides a unique glimpse into the concept of life before it is fully formed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1564}}` is in [[Psalms 139:16]], where the psalmist declares, "Thine eyes{H5869} did see{H7200} my **substance, yet being unperfect**{H1564}". In this context, the word describes the psalmist's embryonic state, seen by God before being fully developed. The verse continues by stating that all his members were written{H3789} in God's book{H5612} and were to be fashioned{H3335} in continuance{H3117}, even when none of them yet existed{H259}.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of `{{H1564}}`:
* `{{H3335}}` **yâtsar** (to mould into a form): This word emphasizes the creative act of God as a potter. It is used to describe how God **formed** man from dust [[Genesis 2:7]] and how he is the **potter** who forms his people [[Isaiah 64:8]].
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see): This highlights God's omniscience. While man looks on the outward appearance, the LORD is able to **see** the heart [[1 Samuel 16:7]], and in this case, even the unformed embryo.
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab** (to write): This points to a divine record or plan. God promises to **write** his law on the hearts of his people [[Jeremiah 31:33]], and a book of remembrance was **written** for those who feared him [[Malachi 3:16]].
* `{{H5612}}` **çêpher** (writing, a book): This term for a **book** or scroll signifies a permanent and authoritative record. The "book of the LORD" contains divine commands [[Isaiah 34:16]], and deliverance is for those found written in the **book** [[Daniel 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1564}}` is significant despite its rarity. It underscores several key doctrines:
* **Divine Omniscience:** The concept that God's eyes `{{H5869}}` can see `{{H7200}}` the "unperfect substance" demonstrates His complete knowledge, extending even to the earliest, undeveloped stages of life.
* **Sovereign Creation:** The psalmist is not only seen but is "fashioned" `{{H3335}}` according to a plan "written" `{{H3789}}` in God's "book" `{{H5612}}`, highlighting God's role as the sovereign and purposeful creator.
* **Predetermined Plan:** The fact that the psalmist's members and days were recorded before even one of them existed [[Psalms 139:16]] points to a life ordained and known by God from the very beginning.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1564}}` **gôlem** provides a powerful and precise image of an unformed, embryonic substance. Although used only once, its context in [[Psalms 139:16]] is foundational to understanding God's intimate and all-knowing involvement in creation. It illustrates that from the earliest, unformed state, life is seen, known, and purposefully fashioned according to a divine plan.
TRV