Psalms 44:19

Authorized King James Version

PDF

Though thou hast sore broken us in the place of dragons, and covered us with the shadow of death.

Original Language Analysis

כִּ֣י H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
דִ֭כִּיתָנוּ Though thou hast sore broken H1794
דִ֭כִּיתָנוּ Though thou hast sore broken
Strong's: H1794
Word #: 2 of 7
to collapse (phys. or mentally)
בִּמְק֣וֹם us in the place H4725
בִּמְק֣וֹם us in the place
Strong's: H4725
Word #: 3 of 7
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
תַּנִּ֑ים of dragons H8577
תַּנִּ֑ים of dragons
Strong's: H8577
Word #: 4 of 7
a marine or land monster, i.e., sea-serpent or jackal
וַתְּכַ֖ס and covered H3680
וַתְּכַ֖ס and covered
Strong's: H3680
Word #: 5 of 7
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
עָלֵ֣ינוּ H5921
עָלֵ֣ינוּ
Strong's: H5921
Word #: 6 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
בְצַלְמָֽוֶת׃ us with the shadow of death H6757
בְצַלְמָֽוֶת׃ us with the shadow of death
Strong's: H6757
Word #: 7 of 7
shade of death, i.e., the grave (figuratively, calamity)

Analysis & Commentary

The paradox intensifies: 'Though thou hast sore broken us in the place of dragons, and covered us with the shadow of death.' God Himself has broken them--suffering comes from divine hand, not despite divine sovereignty. 'Place of dragons' suggests wilderness desolation; 'shadow of death' (Hebrew tsalmaveth) indicates mortal danger and deep darkness.

Historical Context

The 'place of dragons' (jackals) represents uninhabitable wasteland, the opposite of the fertile promised land. Being driven to such places suggested loss of covenant blessing and divine presence.

Questions for Reflection