As when one plows and breaks up the soil, so our bones have been scattered at the mouth of Sheol. As when one plows and breaks up the earthThis phrase evokes the imagery of a farmer diligently working the soil, a common sight in ancient agrarian societies. The Hebrew root for "plows" is "ḥāraš," which means to cut or engrave, suggesting a deep and transformative action. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as God preparing the hearts of His people, breaking up the hardened ground to make it receptive to His word. Historically, plowing was a labor-intensive process, symbolizing the effort required to cultivate spiritual growth and repentance. our bones have been scattered at the mouth of Sheol Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidTraditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 141, David is expressing a deep sense of vulnerability and seeking God's protection and guidance. 2. Sheol In Hebrew thought, Sheol is the realm of the dead, often depicted as a place of darkness and separation from the living. 3. Imagery of Plowing The act of plowing and breaking up soil is used metaphorically to describe destruction or scattering, emphasizing the depth of despair or defeat. Teaching Points Understanding DespairRecognize that even the faithful experience moments of deep despair and vulnerability. David's imagery of bones scattered at Sheol's mouth reflects a profound sense of hopelessness that believers may encounter. God's Sovereignty Over Death Despite the imagery of death and Sheol, believers can trust in God's sovereignty and power to redeem and restore, as seen in the resurrection hope throughout Scripture. Prayer as a Refuge David's psalm is a prayer, reminding us that in times of distress, turning to God in prayer is a vital refuge and source of strength. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare The scattering of bones can symbolize spiritual attacks or trials. Believers are called to remain vigilant and seek God's protection. Hope in Restoration Just as plowed soil can lead to new growth, God can bring renewal and restoration from our brokenness and despair. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of plowing and breaking up soil in Psalm 141:7 help us understand the depth of David's despair?2. In what ways can the concept of Sheol in this verse be related to feelings of spiritual or emotional death in our lives? 3. How does the hope of restoration, as seen in Ezekiel 37, provide encouragement when we feel like our "bones have been scattered"? 4. What practical steps can we take to make prayer a refuge during times of spiritual warfare or deep distress? 5. How can understanding God's sovereignty over life and death change our perspective on the trials we face? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 23The imagery of walking through the "valley of the shadow of death" connects to the theme of facing death or deep despair, yet with a reliance on God's presence. Ezekiel 37 The vision of the dry bones being brought to life parallels the imagery of bones scattered, highlighting God's power to restore and bring life from death. Job 7 Job's lament about the brevity and suffering of life resonates with the themes of despair and the proximity of Sheol.
People David, Psalmist, SaulPlaces JerusalemTopics Bones, Breaketh, Breaks, Broken, Cleaves, Cleaveth, Command, Cutteth, Grave, Grave's, Mouth, Open, Plough, Ploweth, Plows, Ripping, Rock, Saul, Scattered, Shatters, Sheol, Strewn, Tilling, Underworld, WoodDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 141:7 4498 ploughing Library The Incense of Prayer'Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.'--PSALM cxli. 2. The place which this psalm occupies in the Psalter, very near its end, makes it probable that it is considerably later in date than the prior portions of the collection. But the Psalmist, who here penetrates to the inmost meaning of the symbolic sacrificial worship of the Old Testament, was not helped to his clear-sightedness by his date, but by his devotion. For throughout … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Evening Hymns And Lest it Should Seem that Necessary Continence was to be Hoped for From... For Acceptance in Prayer, and Daily Guidance. --Ps. cxli. Epistle xxxv. To Eulogius, Patriarch of Alexandria. How Some of the Heavenly Lovers Died Also of Love. That all Hope and Trust is to be Fixed in God Alone In this So Great Conflict, Wherein Man under Grace Lives... The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers. Wherefore Let this be the First Thought for the Putting on of Humility... Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist. The Daily Walk with Others (I. ). An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis Prayer Psalms Links Psalm 141:7 NIVPsalm 141:7 NLT Psalm 141:7 ESV Psalm 141:7 NASB Psalm 141:7 KJV Psalm 141:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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