Old Testament
Isaiah 38:13
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I reckoned until morning that, like a lion, he would break all my bones: from day until night, you will bring me to an end.
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I reckoned till morning, that, as a lion, so will he break all my bones: from day even to night wilt thou make an end of me.
What Isaiah 38:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 38:13, the speaker expresses deep anguish and fear of death, comparing his suffering to that of a lion that ruthlessly breaks bones. This vivid imagery illustrates the intensity of his pain and the feeling of being overwhelmed by his circumstances. The phrase 'from day until night' emphasizes the relentless nature of his distress, suggesting that his suffering is continuous and inescapable. The speaker feels as if he is being brought to an end, highlighting a sense of hopelessness and despair. This verse captures the emotional turmoil of facing mortality and the struggle to find peace in the midst of suffering. It reflects a moment of vulnerability where the speaker confronts the reality of life and death, revealing the human experience of fear and the desire for relief from pain. Ultimately, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the weight of despair that can accompany illness or impending death.
How to apply Isaiah 38:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our fears and struggles openly. In moments of despair, we can find comfort in sharing our burdens with others and seeking support. It reminds us that it is okay to feel overwhelmed and that expressing our pain can lead to healing and hope.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: Hezekiah's Illness (Isaiah 38:1–22)
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Isaiah
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Isaiah 38:13
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 38:13 mean?
Isaiah 38:13 expresses the speaker's deep anguish and fear of death, using the imagery of a lion breaking bones to illustrate the intensity of his suffering. It highlights the relentless nature of his distress and a sense of hopelessness as he confronts mortality.
What is the meaning of the phrase 'like a lion' in Isaiah 38:13?
The phrase 'like a lion' in Isaiah 38:13 symbolizes the fierce and brutal nature of the speaker's pain, suggesting that his suffering feels overwhelming and destructive, much like the powerful force of a lion.
How does Isaiah 38:13 relate to feelings of hopelessness?
Isaiah 38:13 relates to feelings of hopelessness by portraying the speaker's despair as he feels overwhelmed by his circumstances, emphasizing the continuous nature of his suffering and the sense of being brought to an end.
What themes are present in Isaiah 38:13?
The themes present in Isaiah 38:13 include suffering, fear of death, hopelessness, vulnerability, and the vivid imagery of pain, all of which reflect the human experience of confronting mortality.
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