Definition: Lift up thy feet unto the perpetual desolations; [even] all [that] the enemy hath done wickedly in the sanctuary.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 74:3. It's a really powerful and poignant image! Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse speaks about feeling deeply hurt and angry by the actions of someone who is deliberately causing trouble or wrongdoing – specifically, those who are attacking or harming people in a sacred place (the “sanctuary”). Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Lift up thy feet unto the perpetual desolations” : This is a bit metaphorical. "Desolations" means destruction or ruin. So, "lifting your feet" suggests a feeling of being overwhelmed and helpless in the face of something terrible happening. It’s like saying “I can't stand this anymore.” The word “perpetual” emphasizes that it's not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing state of suffering. “[even] all [that] the enemy hath done wickedly in the sanctuary” : This is where it gets really serious. "The enemy" refers to someone who is actively trying to harm people, often through deceit or violence. “Wickedly” means doing something evil and dishonorable; it’s a strong word for wrongdoing. "The sanctuary" is a place of importance – perhaps a temple, a holy space, or a sacred area that's meant for worship and reverence. So, the verse says that someone has been actively harming those in a place of great importance. In short, the verse expresses: A deep sense of sorrow and outrage at someone’s deliberate wickedness, especially when it happens within a place considered holy or significant. It’s a lament for the suffering caused by this behavior. What's the message? It highlights the importance of defending what is sacred – our faith, our community, and our well-being – even in the face of terrible attacks. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain its historical context (when was it written)? Discuss its themes (like forgiveness, hope, or justice)?