King James Version
Psalms 139:17 in the King James Version says “How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 139 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!”
Psalms 139:17 · KJV
My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. substance: or, strength, or, body
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. all: Heb. all of them which: or, what days they should be fashioned
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“How precious”
H3365properly, apparently, to be heavy, i.e., (figuratively) valuable; causatively, to make rare (figuratively, to inhibit)
“unto me O God”
H410strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“how great”
H6105to bind fast, i.e., close (the eyes); intransitively, to be (causatively, make) powerful or numerous; to crunch the bones
“is the sum”
H7218the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
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.
Psalms 139:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 139:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge