Old Testament
Psalms 80:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You feed them with the bread of tears, and give them tears to drink in great measure.
Compare translations
Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure.
What Psalms 80:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses deep sorrow and anguish, using the metaphor of tears as food and drink. This imagery suggests that the people are suffering greatly, feeling overwhelmed by their pain and grief. The 'bread of tears' symbolizes the constant sorrow they experience, while 'tears to drink' indicates that their emotional suffering is abundant and inescapable. This verse reflects a time of distress for the Israelites, possibly during exile or oppression, where their cries for help seem unanswered. It highlights the emotional toll of their situation, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and restoration. The psalmist is calling out to God, acknowledging their suffering and seeking relief from their tears. This poignant imagery serves to illustrate the depth of their despair and the longing for comfort and hope amidst their trials.
How to apply Psalms 80:5 to your life
In times of deep sorrow, we can turn to God, just as the psalmist did. Acknowledging our pain and seeking His comfort can lead to healing. Remember that expressing our emotions is important, and God is always there to listen and provide support during our struggles.
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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 80:5
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 80:5
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 80:5 mean?
Psalms 80:5 expresses the deep sorrow and anguish of the Israelites, using the metaphor of tears as food and drink. It highlights their suffering and the emotional toll of their situation, emphasizing their need for God's help and restoration.
What is the meaning of 'bread of tears' in Psalms 80:5?
The phrase 'bread of tears' symbolizes the constant sorrow and grief that the people are experiencing. It indicates that their emotional pain is so overwhelming that it feels like a daily sustenance.
How can I apply Psalms 80:5 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 80:5 by acknowledging your own pain and seeking comfort from God during difficult times. It reminds us that expressing our emotions is important and that God is there to support us in our struggles.
What themes are present in Psalms 80:5?
The themes in Psalms 80:5 include suffering, emotional pain, the need for divine intervention, a cry for help, restoration, and hope in despair. These themes resonate with anyone experiencing hardship.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.