King James Version

What Does Psalms 111:4 Mean?

Psalms 111:4 in the King James Version says “He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 111 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

Psalms 111:4 · KJV


Context

2

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

3

His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

4

He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

5

He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant. meat: Heb. prey

6

He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered (זֵכֶר עָשָׂה לְנִפְלְאֹתָיו)—Zeker (memorial, remembrance) suggests God intentionally designed His mighty acts to be unforgettable. The verb asah (to make/do) emphasizes divine agency—God actively ensures His niflaot (wonders, marvels) remain in covenant memory through festivals, testimony, and Scripture. This recalls Passover: 'This day shall be unto you for a memorial' (Exodus 12:14). God's works are self-authenticating revelation demanding generational transmission.

The LORD is gracious and full of compassion (חַנּוּן וְרַחוּם יְהוָה)—This formulaic covenant language echoes Exodus 34:6, God's self-revelation to Moses. Channun (gracious) denotes unmerited favor, while rachum (compassionate) derives from rechem (womb), suggesting maternal tenderness. Psalm 111 is an acrostic (each line begins with successive Hebrew letters), and this theological summary anchors Israel's worship in the character revealed at Sinai. God's wonders reveal not merely His power but His covenant love.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Psalm 111 is a 'wisdom psalm' composed as an alphabetic acrostic, a literary device emphasizing completeness and aiding memorization. Written for corporate worship ('in the assembly,' v.1), it likely served as catechetical instruction, teaching Israel's children God's covenant history. The reference to 'wonderful works' encompasses Exodus deliverance, wilderness provision, conquest, and ongoing providence. Post-exilic Judaism used this psalm to rehearse God's faithfulness despite exile, affirming His unchanging character.

Reflection Questions

  1. What spiritual disciplines help you 'remember' God's wonderful works rather than drift into forgetfulness?
  2. How does rehearsing God's past faithfulness strengthen confidence for present trials?
  3. In what ways do God's 'wonderful works' reveal not just His power but His gracious, compassionate character?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
זֵ֣כֶר1 of 6

to be remembered

H2143

a memento, abstractly recollection (rarely if ever); by implication, commemoration

עָ֭שָׂה2 of 6

He hath made

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לְנִפְלְאוֹתָ֑יו3 of 6

his wonderful works

H6381

properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful

חַנּ֖וּן4 of 6

is gracious

H2587

gracious

וְרַח֣וּם5 of 6

and full of compassion

H7349

compassionate

יְהוָֽה׃6 of 6

the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 111:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 111:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study