Definition: Let them not say in their hearts, Ah, so would we have it: let them not say, We have swallowed him up.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 35:25. It's a really powerful and poignant passage about dealing with intense pain and despair. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that when we're experiencing deep sorrow, feeling utterly crushed by our problems, it’s easy to think, “If only I had done this differently… if only I hadn’t been so upset…” It’s a lament about self-blame and dwelling on past mistakes. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Let them not say in their hearts…” – This is the crucial part. It means that we shouldn't be thinking these negative thoughts. It's a command to stop this pattern of self-criticism. "...Ah, so would we have it: let them not say..." - The speaker is anticipating a specific action – a refusal to speak these hurtful thoughts aloud. They’re suggesting that if they did say these things, it would be a terrible thing. "We have swallowed him up." – This is the shocking and painful part. “Swallowed him up” means that the speaker feels like their pain has completely consumed them, overwhelmed them, and taken over their thoughts and feelings. It’s a metaphor for being buried under sorrow. So, what does this mean practically? It's a warning against: Self-blame: Don’t blame yourself for your suffering. Everyone experiences difficult times. Dwelling on the past: Don't obsess over things you can't change. Allowing despair to take root: Don’t let sadness consume you and make it impossible to move forward. In essence, the verse is a reminder to resist the urge to dwell on negative thoughts and to seek comfort and hope amidst hardship. The Context of Psalm 35: This verse comes from a time of deep sorrow and anxiety for the speaker. It’s a plea for strength and a call to turn away from dwelling on pain. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you another Bible verse with a similar theme?