Translations
Modern
I am fading away like a lengthening shadow; I am shaken off like a locust.
Traditional
I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust.
Literal
Like a shadow in its lengthening, I am gone; I am shaken off like the locust.
Latin
Sicut umbra cum declinat ablatus sum, et excussus sum sicut locustæ.
Original
Hebrew
English
I am fading away like a lengthening shadow; I am shaken off like a locust.
Notes
A lengthening shadow suggests a temporary, empty life (Psalms 102:11; 144:4). A single locust can be easily brushed off clothing.
Feeling vulnerable and miserable, the psalmist asks his Lord for help. The accusations have crushed his spirit and drained his physical strength.
The psalmist starts this lament by accusing his accusers of repaying good with evil (Psalm 109:1–5). At the end of the psalm, he prays to the Lord, seeking protection (Psalm 109:21–25) and vengeance (109:26–31).
Theme notes and profiles
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Curse, Cursed Imprecatory Psalms Music Psalms, Book of
Topics
Afflictions and Adversities: Prayer In Afflictions and Adversities: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Prayer: Pleas offered In