Psalms 79:3

Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and there was none to bury them.

Psalms 79:3 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 79 is a communal lament written by Asaph, one of the Levitical singers appointed by King David to lead worship (1 Chronicles 6:39). The psalm reflects the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC. The city fell after a long siege, the temple was burned, and many people were killed or taken captive. This verse describes the terrible scene after the invasion: blood poured out like water around Jerusalem, and no one was left to bury the dead.

Meaning

The phrase “their blood have they shed like water” uses a vivid comparison. Blood flowing like water shows both the great amount of bloodshed and the cruel indifference of the enemies. They killed without remorse, as if human life had no value, and they shed blood without fear of God. The second part, “there was none to bury them,” points to the total devastation. In Jewish culture, burying the dead promptly was a sacred duty that showed respect for the person as God’s creation. When no one could perform this duty, it meant the community was shattered and the people were left in shame and grief. The lack of burial also underscored the depth of their dishonor, for even the dead were denied dignity.

Biblical connections

The lack of burial also appears in other places where God’s judgment falls on the land. For example, Jeremiah 14:16 speaks of those who will have no one to bury them, showing that unburied bodies were a recognized sign of complete disaster. The psalmist’s cry is not detached; it expresses deep anguish and a plea for God to act. The whole psalm (Psalm 79:1-4) describes the defilement of the temple, the desecration of Jerusalem, and the bodies of God’s servants given as food to birds and beasts. This verse is part of that larger picture of suffering and the seeming absence of God’s protection over His chosen city and people. The bloodshed and lack of burial are presented as a direct consequence of the enemy’s invasion, and the psalm as a whole cries out for God to act for the glory of His name.

Application

Psalm 79:3 reminds us that sin and rebellion against God bring serious consequences. Israel’s disobedience led to this national disaster, and the verse calls us to examine our own faithfulness. It also teaches us to turn to God in times of distress, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His mercy. The verse prompts us to value human life and to care for the vulnerable and oppressed. When we see violence or injustice, we should not become numb. Instead, we can pray for God’s intervention and work to treat others with dignity and respect. This includes honoring the dead and comforting those who mourn, as a practical expression of love.

Reflection

This verse is hard to read because it shows the brutal reality of war and the depth of human suffering. Yet it also shows that God’s people can bring their pain honestly to Him. The psalmist does not hide his grief or his questions. He cries out for God to act for the glory of His name. In our own times of trouble, we can follow this example. We can bring our sorrow and confusion to God, trusting that He hears and that He will one day restore what has been broken.