Book of Psalms - Chapter 80 - Verse 12

This verse from the Book of Psalms is a cry of lament towards God, questioning why He has allowed the destruction of the boundaries and protection that once safeguarded His people. The metaphor of broken hedges represents a loss of security and defense that has exposed the people to harm and exploitation by passersby. The imagery of passersby plucking at the vulnerable city represents the invaders or oppressors taking advantage of the weakened state of the people. This verse reflects a common theme in the Bible where the breakdown of physical barriers symbolizes the collapse of spiritual protection due to disobedience or sin. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong boundaries and defenses in both the physical and spiritual realms to guard against external threats and preserve the wellbeing of God's people.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse “Why hast thou then broken down her hedges, so that all they which pass by the way do pluck her?”, it is important to consider the symbolism of hedges in the Bible. Hedges are often used metaphorically to represent protection, boundaries, and security. In this verse, the breaking down of the hedges is a symbol of God’s judgment upon his people. By allowing the hedges to be broken down, God is removing his protection and allowing outsiders to come in and take advantage of his people. This verse serves as a warning that disobedience and sin can lead to the removal of God’s protection and the subsequent vulnerability of his people to outside influences.