King James Version

What Does Psalms 77:14 Mean?

Psalms 77:14 in the King James Version says “Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 77 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.

Psalms 77:14 · KJV


Context

12

I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.

13

Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?

14

Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.

15

Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.

16

The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The psalmist declares: "Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people" (Hebrew atah ha-El oseh fele hit-hoda va-amim uzzekha). "Doest wonders" (Hebrew oseh fele) emphasizes God's miraculous interventions—works that transcend natural causation. "Declared thy strength" indicates that God's mighty acts reveal His character and power to nations. Miracles serve theological purpose: manifesting God's reality and authority. The verse moves from personal faith (vv.1-12) to confessional proclamation (vv.13-20).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The primary "wonders" reference the Exodus miracles: plagues, Red Sea crossing, manna, water from rock. These weren't merely impressive displays but revelatory acts making God known to nations (Exodus 9:16, 15:14-16). Joshua 2:9-11 records Canaanites' terror at hearing of God's works. The New Testament applies this: Christ's miracles manifested His glory (John 2:11).

Reflection Questions

  1. How do God's past "wonders" (both biblical and personal) strengthen present faith?
  2. In what ways does God intend His mighty works to be "declared among the people"—what is your role in this?
  3. How do Christ's miracles supremely reveal God's character, and how does the resurrection surpass all other wonders?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
אַתָּ֣ה1 of 7
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

הָ֭אֵל2 of 7

Thou art the God

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

עֹ֣שֵׂה3 of 7

that doest

H6213

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

פֶ֑לֶא4 of 7

wonders

H6382

a miracle

הוֹדַ֖עְתָּ5 of 7

thou hast declared

H3045

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

בָעַמִּ֣ים6 of 7

among the people

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

עֻזֶּֽךָ׃7 of 7

thy strength

H5797

strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)


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 77:14 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 77:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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