One of an occasional series where I reflect on faith, in my roles as an external adviser to the Church of England on neurodiversity.
In Psalm 139, we have the famous verse, often written as, "You knitted me together in my mother's womb".
Often used by disabled and neurodivergent communities of faith, the verse speaks of God creating us just as we are, from the very beginning, in the womb. For so many, it has been a sign of our belonging, rather than something that needs fixing before we are fit for purpose.
Yet, the word it uses has many meanings, in the Bible. It doesn't just mean 'knitted'. It can also mean 'covered' and 'sheltered'.
https://biblehub.com/hebrew/5526.htm is a useful link for anyone wanting to see the translations and how they appear in the different Bible texts.
It changed how I think about this verse. Not just knitted together, but sheltered, protected, covered. Kept safe from life's storms.
It speaks of a love that cares deeply about each and every one of us, cherishes each and every one of us.
Next time you hear the verse, it may be useful to reflect on what it means for you.
