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Book of Psalms - Chapter 44 - Verse 11

44:11
Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen.

Meaning

The verse "Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen" from the Book of Psalms (44:11) expresses a sense of vulnerability and powerlessness. In this passage, the psalmist compares the plight of the people to that of sheep being led to slaughter. The imagery is one of being at the mercy of others, with little control over their own fate. The scattering of the people among the heathen also represents a loss of identity and community, as they are separated from their homeland and forced to live among unfamiliar cultures and beliefs. This verse reflects the challenges and hardships faced by the Israelites as they struggled to maintain their faith and traditions in the face of persecution and exile. Overall, the verse serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of human existence and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

The verse "Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen" from the book of Psalms reflects a profound theological interpretation regarding the plight of the Israelites. The imagery of being like sheep appointed for slaughter conveys a sense of vulnerability and helplessness, suggesting that the Israelites were at the mercy of their enemies. The scattering among the heathen emphasizes the dispersion and exile experienced by the Israelites as a punishment for their disobedience to God. The word "heathen" in this context refers to the non-believers or Gentiles who were seen as outside the community of faith. Through a word study, one can delve deeper into the Hebrew origins of the words used in this verse to uncover additional layers of meaning and nuances that may not be immediately apparent in English translations. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of straying from God's commandments and the importance of remaining faithful to Him.

American Standard Version

Thou hast made us like sheep [appointed] for food, And hast scattered us among the nations.
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