Book of Psalms - Chapter 139 - Verse 6
Meaning
When the psalmist declares that "Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it," he is expressing a profound sense of awe and humility before the vastness and complexity of God's wisdom and understanding. This verse reflects the recognition that human minds are limited in their ability to fully comprehend the mysteries of God and the universe. It acknowledges that there are depths of knowledge and understanding that are beyond human reach, and that our finite minds are incapable of grasping the full extent of God's infinite wisdom. The psalmist's humility in the face of such overwhelming knowledge serves as a reminder of the limitations of human understanding and the need to approach God with reverence and awe. Ultimately, this verse invites the reader to marvel at the greatness of God and to humbly acknowledge the limits of human knowledge in the presence of divine wisdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the psalmist expresses the awe and wonder at the depth of knowledge possessed by God. The Hebrew word used for "wonderful" can also be translated as "surpassing" or "extraordinary", emphasizing the incomprehensible nature of God's knowledge. The psalmist acknowledges the limitations of human understanding in comparison to the wisdom and omniscience of God. The word "high" signifies the loftiness or exalted nature of God's knowledge, indicating its superiority and beyond reach for mortals. This verse highlights the transcendent nature of God and the humility required in acknowledging our finite capacity to fully grasp the depths of His wisdom. The psalmist's declaration echoes a common theme in the Bible of recognizing the vastness and majesty of God's knowledge, which surpasses human comprehension.