Psalms 42:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 42:3
3 My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?
Chapter Context
Psalms 42 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, wisdom. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-11: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 42:3
3 My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?
Analysis
Tears have become David's 'meat day and night' while enemies continually ask 'Where is thy God?' This mocking question attacks the foundation of faith--if God is real and good, why does He allow such suffering? The image of tears as food suggests grief so overwhelming that it displaces normal sustenance; sorrow consumes everything.
Historical Context
The taunt 'Where is thy God?' echoes throughout Scripture when God's people suffer (Joel 2:17; Micah 7:10). It becomes the central question the psalms of lament address, maintaining faith despite apparent divine absence.
Reflection
- How do you respond when suffering prompts the question 'Where is your God?'
- What does it mean that grief can become so consuming that tears replace food?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 42:10, 79:10, 115:2, Joel 2:17
- Parallel theme: Psalms 79:12, 80:5, 102:9, 2 Samuel 16:12