Psalms 102:6

Authorized King James Version

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I am like a pelican of the wilderness: I am like an owl of the desert.

Original Language Analysis

דָּ֭מִיתִי I am like H1819
דָּ֭מִיתִי I am like
Strong's: H1819
Word #: 1 of 6
to compare; by implication, to resemble, liken, consider
לִקְאַ֣ת a pelican H6893
לִקְאַ֣ת a pelican
Strong's: H6893
Word #: 2 of 6
probably the pelican (from vomiting)
מִדְבָּ֑ר of the wilderness H4057
מִדְבָּ֑ר of the wilderness
Strong's: H4057
Word #: 3 of 6
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
הָ֝יִ֗יתִי H1961
הָ֝יִ֗יתִי
Strong's: H1961
Word #: 4 of 6
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
כְּכ֣וֹס I am like an owl H3563
כְּכ֣וֹס I am like an owl
Strong's: H3563
Word #: 5 of 6
a cup (as a container), often figuratively, some unclean bird, probably an owl (perhaps from the cup-like cavity of its eye)
חֳרָבֽוֹת׃ of the desert H2723
חֳרָבֽוֹת׃ of the desert
Strong's: H2723
Word #: 6 of 6
properly, drought, i.e., (by implication) a desolation

Analysis & Commentary

The pelican (qa'ath) and owl (kos) were ceremonially unclean birds (Lev 11:17-18) inhabiting desolate places, symbolizing the psalmist's isolation and uncleanness. The wilderness (midbar) location emphasizes complete separation from community and normal life. This imagery anticipates Christ's experience in the wilderness (Matt 4:1-11) and His bearing of our uncleanness on the cross. For believers, such seasons of isolation can be preparatory, as God meets His people in the wilderness (Hosea 2:14).

Historical Context

Pelicans and owls inhabit ruins and desolate areas. Ancient Israelites would have understood these birds as symbols of desolation and abandonment, often associated with divine judgment (Isa 34:11, Zeph 2:14).

Questions for Reflection