Psalms 22:13 - They open their mouths wide against me, lions tearing prey and roaring.
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What does "Psalms 22:13" mean?
Psalm 22 is a lament psalm, famously quoted by Jesus on the cross ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"). Verse 13, "They open their mouths wide against me, lions tearing prey and roaring," is a vivid image used to describe the psalmist's suffering and the aggressive nature of his enemies. Let's break it down:
"They open their mouths wide against me..." This signifies aggressive, verbal attacks and accusations. It suggests that the psalmist is being confronted, mocked, slandered, and threatened. The widening of the mouth can also indicate a loud, overwhelming verbal assault.
"...lions tearing prey and roaring." This is a powerful metaphor. Lions are apex predators known for their ferocity and destructive power. The image of tearing prey speaks to the violence and the intent to utterly destroy. The roaring amplifies the threat, creates fear, and announces their dominance.
Overall Meaning:
Verse 13 is a figurative expression describing the intense hostility and overwhelming power of the psalmist's enemies. They are not just passively disliking him; they are actively and aggressively trying to harm him, both verbally and perhaps physically. The comparison to lions highlights their ruthless, merciless, and destructive nature.
Connection to the Larger Psalm:
This verse reinforces the theme of abandonment and helplessness that runs throughout Psalm 22. The psalmist feels utterly alone and vulnerable, surrounded by powerful enemies who are intent on his destruction. He is portrayed as the helpless prey of vicious predators.
Possible Interpretations (Beyond the Literal):
Enemies in General: This verse can represent any kind of powerful opposition – political, social, or even spiritual.
Internal Struggles: Some interpretations suggest this verse could also represent internal struggles with doubt, fear, and despair, which feel overwhelming and destructive.
In conclusion, Psalm 22:13 paints a terrifying picture of being attacked by fierce and powerful enemies who are intent on causing harm. It is a vivid illustration of the psalmist's vulnerability and the severity of his suffering.
Psalms 22:13 - They open their mouths wide against me, lions tearing prey and roaring.
What does "Psalms 22:13" mean?
Psalm 22 is a lament psalm, famously quoted by Jesus on the cross ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"). Verse 13, "They open their mouths wide against me, lions tearing prey and roaring," is a vivid image used to describe the psalmist's suffering and the aggressive nature of his enemies. Let's break it down:
"They open their mouths wide against me..." This signifies aggressive, verbal attacks and accusations. It suggests that the psalmist is being confronted, mocked, slandered, and threatened. The widening of the mouth can also indicate a loud, overwhelming verbal assault.
"...lions tearing prey and roaring." This is a powerful metaphor. Lions are apex predators known for their ferocity and destructive power. The image of tearing prey speaks to the violence and the intent to utterly destroy. The roaring amplifies the threat, creates fear, and announces their dominance.
Overall Meaning:
Verse 13 is a figurative expression describing the intense hostility and overwhelming power of the psalmist's enemies. They are not just passively disliking him; they are actively and aggressively trying to harm him, both verbally and perhaps physically. The comparison to lions highlights their ruthless, merciless, and destructive nature.
Connection to the Larger Psalm:
This verse reinforces the theme of abandonment and helplessness that runs throughout Psalm 22. The psalmist feels utterly alone and vulnerable, surrounded by powerful enemies who are intent on his destruction. He is portrayed as the helpless prey of vicious predators.
Possible Interpretations (Beyond the Literal):
Enemies in General: This verse can represent any kind of powerful opposition – political, social, or even spiritual.
Internal Struggles: Some interpretations suggest this verse could also represent internal struggles with doubt, fear, and despair, which feel overwhelming and destructive.
In conclusion, Psalm 22:13 paints a terrifying picture of being attacked by fierce and powerful enemies who are intent on causing harm. It is a vivid illustration of the psalmist's vulnerability and the severity of his suffering.