Psalms 6:7
Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
Original Language Analysis
עֵינִ֑י
Mine eye
H5869
עֵינִ֑י
Mine eye
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
3 of 6
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
עָֽ֝תְקָ֗ה
it waxeth old
H6275
עָֽ֝תְקָ֗ה
it waxeth old
Strong's:
H6275
Word #:
4 of 6
to remove (intransitive or transitive) figuratively, to grow old; specifically, to transcribe
Cross References
Psalms 38:10My heart panteth, my strength faileth me: as for the light of mine eyes, it also is gone from me.Job 17:7Mine eye also is dim by reason of sorrow, and all my members are as a shadow.Psalms 88:9Mine eye mourneth by reason of affliction: LORD, I have called daily upon thee, I have stretched out my hands unto thee.Lamentations 5:17For this our heart is faint; for these things our eyes are dim.
Historical Context
The enemies could be those involved in Absalom's rebellion or other opponents who celebrated David's misery. Ancient cultures believed one's suffering indicated divine disfavor, so enemies would mock the afflicted as abandoned by their god. David's persistence in prayer despite their taunts shows covenant confidence that God remained his God regardless of circumstances.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when enemies seem to triumph during your suffering?
- What helps you continue praying when circumstances show no improvement?
Analysis & Commentary
Physical symptoms accompany emotional distress - 'mine eye is consumed' suggests weakened sight from weeping. 'Waxeth old' (Hebrew 'ataq') means to deteriorate or grow weak. The enemies' presence intensifies his suffering - their ongoing hostility compounds his grief. This verse shows how external persecution and internal anguish interact to overwhelm the sufferer. Yet even in this depth of misery, David still speaks to God, demonstrating that prayer continues even when relief seems distant.