Psalm 139:14 serves as a powerful reminder of the dignity, value and purpose of human life as created by God. It also sums up about human existence, divine creation, intentionality in creation, and the relationship between God and humanity, writes Bishop Reynaldo Bunyi Getalado msp of the Catholic Church.

Psalm 139:14 was also the theme of the World Day of Prayer service held at the National Auditorium on March 6, 2025. The World Day of Prayer service invites believers to embrace their identity as beloved creation, to live in gratitude and to recognise the sacredness of all human life. This understanding not only enriches personal faith but also fosters a deeper respect for the lives of others, reflecting the universal call to love and serve as modelled by Christ.

The meaning of fearfully and wonderfully made

1. Fearfully – The term “fearfully” suggests a sense of awe and reverence associated with the act of creation. It indicates that human beings are created with great care and intentionality by God. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasises the special status of humanity in creation. As in Psalm 8, humans are made “a little lower than God” and are “crowned with glory and honor”. (Psalm 8:5)
2. Wonderfully – The word wonderfully emphasises the extraordinary nature of human beings. It points to the complexity and beauty of human life, which is intricately designed by God. The Psalmist acknowledges that the works of God are wonderful, suggesting that the very act of being human is a marvel in itself. This is further supported by the understanding that each person is uniquely created, with individual gifts and purposes.

Some points for reflection

1. Human dignity and Divine creation: Psalm 139:14 emphasises the inherent dignity of the human person, rooted in the belief that each individual is created by God. It also suggests that human beings are crafted with great care and intentionality. This also aligns with the teaching that humans are made in the image and likeness of God (Gen. 1:26-27), which confers upon them a unique dignity and worth that transcends all other creatures.

They are: Irreplaceability – Each person is described as irreplaceable, reflecting the idea that every life has a unique story and purpose; Divine Image – The Divine Image is manifested in Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of humanity and divinity, thus restoring the relationship between God and humankind.

2. The wonder of creation: The Psalmist indicates that the human beings are not merely biological entities but are imbued with spiritual essence that reflects God’s glory. Humanity is the loftiest, most marvellous reality of the entire universe, as Pope Benedict XVI said. In the preceding verses of Psalm 139, affirming that God knows each person intimately, even before their formation in the womb. The acknowledgment of being wonderfully made, invites a response of gratitude and praise towards God, recognising creation as a gift that should inspire reverence and respect for life

3. Divine creation and purpose:The phrase, “fearfully and wonderfully made”, emphasises that humans are not accidents but carefully designed by God, meaning that God’s work in creating us is something to be respected and marvelled.

4. Divine Omniscience – meaning the state of knowing everything: The Psalm begins with a celebration of God’s all-encompassing knowledge. The Psalmist acknowledges that God has searched and known him, indicating that God’s understanding of humanity is complete and intimate. The all-encompassing knowledge is not only intellectual; it encompasses every aspect of human existence, including thoughts, actions, and even most private moments of life.

1. Comprehensive knowledge – God knows himself fully and adequately, and from this self-knowledge, He comprehends all created objects and their finite existence. It includes deep understanding of the essence and nature of all things.
2. Eternal and unchangeable – Unlike human knowledge, which can grow and change over time, God’s knowledge is eternal. It does not evolve or develop; rather, it exists in a singular, timeless act. God’s knowledge does not depend on external factors or experience, but is intrinsic to His divine nature.
3. Intimacy with creation – God’s omniscience extends to knowing the thoughts and intentions of every individual. This intimate knowledge underscore the personal relationship God has with His creation.

Implications of God’s all-knowing knowledge

1. Moral accountability: The belief in God’s omniscience reinforces the concept of moral accountability. Since God knows all actions and intentions, individuals are called to live in accordance with His will, aware that nothing is hidden from Him.
2. Divine providence: God’s omniscience is closely liked to His providence. His perfect knowledge allows Him to govern the universe with wisdom and justice, ensuring that all things work together for the good of those who love Him.
3. Revelation and faith: While God’s omniscience is accessible through reason and observation of creation, it is also revealed through sacred scripture. The Church teaches that God has disclosed certain truths about himself and His plans for humanity, which are essential for salvation.

Application of Psalm 139:14

1. Self-worth – This verse reminds us that our value comes from God, not the world.
2. Sanctity of life – It supports the belief that every human life, from the conception to death, is sacred.
3. Worship and gratitude – Recognising God’s handiwork should lead us to praise Him, just as the Psalmist does.

In summary, Psalm 139:14 encapsulates the theological understanding of human dignity, divine creation and moral responsibility. It invites the believers to reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of their existence and the intimate relationship they share with their creator, who knows and values them deeply. This understanding fosters a sense of gratitude and reverence for life, encouraging a responsible stewardship of the gifts bestowed by God.