Definition: I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, [even] from good; and my sorrow was stirred.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down Psalm 39:2. It’s a really beautiful and poignant verse that speaks to the feeling of sadness and loneliness. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “I felt so overwhelmed with sadness, I was completely silent, and I held back my tears – even when I was trying to be peaceful.” Let's unpack it a little: “I was dumb with silence…” : This is a really strong way of saying you were very quiet. It suggests you weren’t talking or expressing yourself. “…I held my peace…” : This means you tried really hard to stay calm and avoid getting upset. “[Even] from good…” : This is the key part. “Good” here refers to happiness, contentment, or peace of mind. You were trying to maintain a feeling of serenity. “and my sorrow was stirred.” : This means that despite your best efforts to stay calm, your sadness grew and became more intense. It wasn't just a little bit sad; it felt like something was bubbling up inside you. What does this tell us about the writer? Psalm 39:2 is often interpreted as a reflection on the human condition. It’s about feeling vulnerable, exposed, and overwhelmed by our own emotions. It acknowledges that even when we try to be peaceful and calm, sadness can still arise. Overall, it's a reminder that: Sadness is natural: Everyone feels sad sometimes. We don't have to fight it: It’s okay to feel down. Seeking comfort is important: It encourages us to find ways to cope with our emotions and perhaps seek support when we need it. Do you want me to explain anything in more detail, or would you like a different perspective on this verse? For example, we could talk about its connection to the human experience, or maybe explore how it relates to suffering.