Old Testament

Psalms 22:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the speaker describes a feeling of being surrounded by hostile forces, likening them to dogs, which were often seen as unclean and aggressive animals in ancient times.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

For dogs have surrounded me; the assembly of the wicked have enclosed me; they pierced my hands and my feet.

KJVKing James Version

For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the speaker describes a feeling of being surrounded by hostile forces, likening them to dogs, which were often seen as unclean and aggressive animals in ancient times. The 'assembly of the wicked' refers to a group of people who are plotting against the speaker, creating a sense of isolation and danger. The phrase 'they pierced my hands and my feet' is particularly significant, as it foreshadows suffering and possibly alludes to crucifixion, a form of execution that involves nailing or binding the hands and feet. This imagery conveys deep anguish and a sense of betrayal, highlighting the speaker's vulnerability and the severity of their plight. The verse captures the essence of despair while also hinting at a deeper, prophetic meaning that resonates with the suffering of Christ in the New Testament, making it a powerful expression of pain and hope.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 22:16 to your life

This verse reminds us that in times of distress, we may feel surrounded by negativity and hostility. It encourages us to seek strength and comfort in our faith, knowing that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone. We can find hope in the promise of redemption and support from our community.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 22:16 mean?

Psalms 22:16 expresses a feeling of being surrounded by enemies, comparing them to aggressive dogs. The verse highlights the speaker's suffering and vulnerability, particularly through the imagery of having their hands and feet pierced, which foreshadows deep anguish.

What is the significance of 'pierced my hands and my feet' in Psalms 22:16?

The phrase 'pierced my hands and my feet' signifies intense suffering and is often interpreted as a prophetic reference to crucifixion. It emphasizes the depth of the speaker's pain and betrayal.

What does the 'assembly of the wicked' refer to in Psalms 22:16?

The 'assembly of the wicked' refers to a group of hostile individuals who are plotting against the speaker. This phrase conveys a sense of isolation and danger, highlighting the severity of the speaker's situation.

How does Psalms 22:16 relate to feelings of isolation?

Psalms 22:16 captures the essence of isolation by depicting the speaker as surrounded by hostile forces. This imagery resonates with anyone who has felt alone or attacked during difficult times.

Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

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