King James Version
What Does Psalms 79:3 Mean?
“Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and there was none to bury them.”
Context
1
A Psalm of Asaph. O God, the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps. of: or, for
2
The dead bodies of thy servants have they given to be meat unto the fowls of the heaven, the flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth.
3
Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and there was none to bury them.
4
We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.
5
How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? shall thy jealousy burn like fire?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Their blood.**—In 1 Maccabees 7:17, we read “The flesh of thy saints and their blood have they shed round about Jerusalem, and there was none to bury them,” introduced by “according to the word which he wrote.” This is evidently a free quotation from this psalm, and seems to imply a reference to a contemporary.
**None to bury.**—For this aggravation of the evil comp. Jeremiah 14:16; Jeremiah 22:18-19.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 79:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 79:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge