Definition: O my God, make them like a wheel; as the stubble before the wind.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 83:13. It’s a really powerful and poignant verse from the Bible. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about profound sadness and despair when we feel utterly overwhelmed by suffering or hardship. It’s saying, “My God, I am so sad/broken that I feel like I’m just a tiny, insignificant wheel – easily swept away by whatever is happening.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “O my God…” : This shows the speaker is deeply acknowledging and admitting their pain. It’s not an easy thing to admit you’re feeling this way. “…make them like a wheel…” : This is the key image. A wheel is designed for movement – it rotates and goes somewhere. Think of a spinning top, or a vehicle moving along its path. This suggests that the speaker feels like they're stuck, unable to move forward or escape their suffering. They’re becoming a passive thing, lacking agency. “As the stubble before the wind…” : This is where it gets really evocative. "Stubble" refers to dried plant matter left behind after a storm. Think of a field covered in dry, scattered leaves. Here's what it means: The Wind: Represents harshness, adversity, and the forces that are constantly trying to push someone down. The Stubble: Symbolizes pain, loss, or difficult times that are constantly being blown away. It’s a persistent presence. It suggests that even after things have passed, their impact lingers. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Psalm 83:13 is essentially a lament – a sorrowful expression of deep distress. The speaker feels utterly helpless and insignificant in the face of overwhelming suffering. They are so burdened by their pain that they feel like a small, easily disrupted thing – a wheel that’s about to be swept away. It's a raw and honest portrayal of feeling trapped by difficulty. Why is it important? This verse is often interpreted as a reflection on the human condition – our vulnerability to suffering and the feeling of being powerless against it. It can also suggest a call for hope, even in the darkest moments: even though we feel small and helpless, we still have the potential to find strength and resilience through prayer. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Psalm/83/13](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Psalm/83/13) (This provides a direct quote and context) Insights Bible: [https://insightsbib.com/psalm-83/chapter-13/](https://insightsbib.com/psalm-83/chapter-13/) (Offers detailed commentary and analysis) --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Explore how it relates to other themes in the Bible?