Psalms 22:13

They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion.

Psalms 22:13 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 22 is a Messianic psalm that portrays the suffering of the righteous one. It opens with the cry, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” which Jesus quoted on the cross (Matthew 27:46). In verse 13, the psalmist describes his enemies with intense, predatory imagery. They surround him, and their hostility is both visible and audible.

Meaning

The phrase “They gaped upon me with their mouths” means the enemies opened their mouths wide, staring with malicious intent. This action shows derision and contempt, as if they were ready to swallow him whole. The comparison to “a ravening and a roaring lion” emphasizes their ferocity and eagerness to destroy. A ravening lion tears its prey apart, and a roaring lion announces its power. Together, these words picture enemies who are both violent and boastful, leaving the psalmist feeling helpless and surrounded.

Biblical connections

This verse connects directly to the suffering of Jesus Christ. The New Testament shows the crowd crying out against Him, and the psalm’s imagery of open mouths and predatory enemies foreshadows the mockery and rejection Jesus endured. The same hostility that the psalmist faced was directed at the Messiah. Yet the psalm does not end in despair; it moves toward deliverance and praise, pointing to the victory found in Jesus’ resurrection.

Application

Believers may face opposition that feels like the attack of a roaring lion. Such hostility can come from words, mockery, or threats. This verse teaches that God sees the danger and understands the fear. It also reminds us that Jesus shared this experience, so He can sympathize with those who suffer unjustly. When enemies seem ready to devour, the believer can cry out to God, just as the psalmist did.

Reflection

How do you respond when you are surrounded by hostile words or actions? The psalmist did not hide his pain, but he brought it honestly to God. Jesus also faced the open mouths of His accusers and trusted His Father. This verse invites you to place your fear and helplessness into God’s hands, knowing that He who delivered the psalmist and raised Jesus from the dead will also sustain you.