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Psalms 141:7

Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth wood upon the earth.

Psalms 141:7 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker vividly describes the state of their bones as being scattered at the mouth of the grave, likening it to the act of cutting and cleaving wood upon the earth. This imagery conveys a sense of destruction, vulnerability, and finality that comes with death. The comparison to the act of cutting and cleaving wood suggests a violent and forceful separation, emphasizing the harsh reality of mortality and the physical decay of the body after death. The scattered bones at the grave's mouth symbolize the inevitable end of life and the idea of being reduced to mere remnants. It serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of human existence and the ephemeral quality of life.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Psalms, the psalmist uses vivid imagery to convey the feeling of being on the brink of death. The phrase "Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth" paints a picture of utter desolation and hopelessness. The image of bones scattered at the mouth of the grave signifies the finality of death and the sense of being utterly defeated. The comparison to cutting and cleaving wood upon the earth further emphasizes the violent and irreversible nature of death. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. In theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a reflection on the brevity of human existence and the importance of living a meaningful and righteous life. It is a call to reflect on our mortality and strive to make the most of the time we have on this earth.

Psalms 141:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

As when one ploweth and cleaveth the earth, Our bones are scattered at the mouth of Sheol.

World English Bible

“As when one plows and breaks up the earth, our bones are scattered at the mouth of Sheol.”

Douay-Rheims

Attend to my supplication: for I am brought very low. Deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Our bones lye scattered at the graues mouth, as he that heweth wood or diggeth in the earth.