Psalms 141:7

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כְּמ֤וֹ
as, thus, so
#2
פֹלֵ֣חַ
as when one cutteth
to slice, i.e., break open or pierce
#3
וּבֹקֵ֣עַ
and cleaveth
to cleave; generally, to rend, break, rip or open
#4
בָּאָ֑רֶץ
wood upon the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#5
נִפְזְר֥וּ
are scattered
to scatter, whether in enmity or bounty
#6
עֲ֝צָמֵ֗ינוּ
Our bones
a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame
#7
לְפִ֣י
mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#8
שְׁאֽוֹל׃
at the grave's
hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection