Old Testament
Psalms 141:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Our bones are scattered at the mouth of the grave, as when one cuts and splits wood on the earth.
Compare translations
Our bones are scattered at the grave’s mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth wood upon the earth.
What Psalms 141:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Psalms 141:7, the psalmist uses a vivid metaphor to express a deep sense of despair and vulnerability. The imagery of bones scattered at the grave's mouth suggests a feeling of being on the brink of death or destruction. Just as cutting and splitting wood creates chaos and disorder, the psalmist feels that their life is in disarray, possibly due to external threats or personal struggles. This verse reflects a cry for help, emphasizing the fragility of life and the urgency of seeking divine protection. The comparison to wood cutting also highlights the harshness of their situation, as it evokes a sense of violence and loss. Overall, this verse captures the emotional turmoil of facing imminent danger and the longing for safety and restoration from God.
How to apply Psalms 141:7 to your life
In moments of despair, we can turn to God for protection and comfort. This verse reminds us to acknowledge our vulnerabilities and seek divine help. When facing overwhelming challenges, it’s important to express our feelings honestly and trust in God’s ability to restore and protect us.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 141:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 141:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 141:7 mean?
Psalms 141:7 uses the metaphor of scattered bones at the grave's mouth to express feelings of despair and vulnerability. It illustrates the psalmist's sense of being on the edge of death and the chaos in their life, highlighting the urgency of seeking God's protection.
What is the meaning of 'bones scattered' in Psalms 141:7?
The phrase 'bones scattered' symbolizes a state of extreme vulnerability and hopelessness. It conveys the idea of being close to death or destruction, reflecting the emotional turmoil the psalmist is experiencing.
How does Psalms 141:7 relate to feelings of despair?
Psalms 141:7 relates to despair by vividly portraying the psalmist's sense of being overwhelmed and vulnerable. The imagery of scattered bones evokes a deep emotional struggle, emphasizing the need for comfort and safety from God.
What themes are present in Psalms 141:7?
The themes in Psalms 141:7 include despair, vulnerability, divine protection, and emotional turmoil. The verse highlights the chaos of life and the urgency of seeking help during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.