Psalms 22:17
I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me.
Original Language Analysis
אֲסַפֵּ֥ר
I may tell
H5608
אֲסַפֵּ֥ר
I may tell
Strong's:
H5608
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עַצְמוֹתָ֑י
all my bones
H6106
עַצְמוֹתָ֑י
all my bones
Strong's:
H6106
Word #:
3 of 7
a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame
יַ֝בִּ֗יטוּ
they look
H5027
יַ֝בִּ֗יטוּ
they look
Strong's:
H5027
Word #:
5 of 7
to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care
Cross References
Luke 23:35And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.Luke 23:27And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.Isaiah 52:14As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:Job 33:21His flesh is consumed away, that it cannot be seen; and his bones that were not seen stick out.
Historical Context
Crucifixion victims were typically crucified naked, adding humiliation to physical agony. The public nature of execution served as deterrent and spectacle. Christ endured this shame 'despising the shame' (Heb. 12:2) for the joy of saving His people.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's public shame cover your private sins?
- What does His willingness to be 'gazed upon' teach about the extent of His love?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The ability to 'tell' (count) all bones indicates extreme emaciation and stretched-out posture of crucifixion. 'They look and stare upon me' captures the humiliating public spectacle of Roman execution. Christ's nakedness and exposure fulfilled this prophecy, demonstrating the depths of His humiliation. Reformed theology emphasizes that Christ bore our shame fully—spiritual, physical, social—to clothe us in His righteousness completely (Isa. 61:10).