Summary of Meaning

The verse Psalms 22:15 portrays a profound expression of despair and physical suffering. The author, traditionally attributed to King David, articulates a state of intense weakness and anguish, illustrating the depths of human suffering. This verse can be interpreted in several ways:

• Physical Exhaustion: The imagery of strength being dried up like a broken piece of pottery indicates a complete loss of vitality. This metaphor suggests that the individual feels as fragile and useless as a broken pot.
• Spiritual Distress: The mention of the tongue cleaving to the jaws reflects extreme thirst and possibly a longing for spiritual nourishment. This can be interpreted as both a physical need and a yearning for God's presence.
• Mortality Awareness: The phrase "brought me into the dust of death" signifies a recognition of one’s mortality and vulnerability, echoing the human condition of facing death.

Contextual Analysis

In the broader context of Psalm 22, this verse serves as part of a lamentation, showcasing the profound suffering that the psalmist endures. It reflects a pathos that resonates throughout the psalm, ultimately leading to themes of faith and restoration. Matthew Henry, in his commentary, highlights the psalm's prophetic nature, often linking it to the suffering of Christ, which is affirmed in references found in the New Testament.

Cross-References to Psalms 22:15

This verse can be cross-referenced with several other biblical texts, painting a more complete picture of its themes of suffering, despair, and the search for divine presence:

• Matthew 27:46: "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" - Reflects the desolation expressed in Psalm 22.
• John 19:28: "After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst." - Illustrates physical thirst akin to the psalmist’s lament.
• Isaiah 53:3-5: "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief..." - Points to the shared experience of suffering.
• Job 30:20: "I cry unto thee, and thou dost not hear: I stand up, and thou regardest me not." - Highlights the feeling of abandonment akin to that in Psalms 22.
• Psalm 69:3: "I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God." - Similar imagery of physical distress and longing for God.
• Hebrews 5:7: "Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears..." - Drawing parallels with the anguish of the psalmist.
• Psalm 30:3: "O Lord, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit." - Represents hope following despair.
• Revelation 21:4: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying..." - Contrasts with the current agony expressed in Psalm 22.
• 2 Corinthians 1:8-9: "For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia..." - Apostolic sharing of suffering akin to the psalmist's struggles.
• Matthew 11:28-30: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." - An invitation echoing the longing for relief seen in Psalm 22.

Thematic Connections

This verse, along with its cross-references, underscores several themes found within the Bible:

• Suffering and Despair: The physical and emotional sufferings of humanity are echoed throughout scripture, providing a continuous dialogue on the topic.
• The Search for God: Many biblical characters question God's presence during their suffering, revealing a common human experience.
• Hope and Restoration: Despite feelings of abandonment, scriptures often provide ultimate hope and restoration, emphasizing the contrasts found in the narrative.

Practical Applications for Cross-Referencing

For those engaging in cross-reference Bible study, this verse serves as a useful tool to understand the depths of despair and the theological implications of suffering. Here are some methods:

• Utilize a Bible Concordance: To find additional references related to themes of suffering and thirst.
• Read Commentaries: Use resources like Matthew Henry and Adam Clarke to gain further insight.
• Group Study: Discuss these themes in a Bible study group, allowing for shared interpretations.
• Thematic Mapping: Create maps to visually see how different verses interlink thematically.
• Application Journals: Write reflections on how these cross-references resonate with personal experiences.