Psalms 139:4 Meaning and Explanation
“For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →God knows every word before it is even spoken.
The Context of Psalms 139:4
Every word, spoken or unspoken, is known to God beforehand.
What Does Psalms 139:4 Mean?
This verse moves from general knowledge to the most intimate realm—the words on the tongue. Before a word is even formed and released into speech, God already knows it completely. The 'for' suggests this is the logical consequence of the previous verses: if God knows thoughts, He certainly knows the words that flow from those thoughts.
'Altogether' emphasizes the fullness of God's knowledge of each word—not a partial understanding but complete comprehension. The phrase 'there is not a word' means every single word, including those the psalmist never speaks, is known to God. This speaks to a knowledge that precedes and encompasses all human utterance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 139:4
What does Psalms 139:4 mean?
God knows every word before it is even spoken.
What is the context of Psalms 139:4?
Every word, spoken or unspoken, is known to God beforehand.