Definition: My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my kinsmen stand afar off.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Psalm 38:11. It’s a really beautiful and poignant expression of feeling lonely and isolated. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: The verse speaks about feeling alone and disconnected when you have people who care for you but aren’t there for you. Let's unpack it: “My lovers and my friends stand aloof…” - This suggests a relationship that is strained or distant. Think of close friends, family members, or even those who are supportive – they’re not truly with you. They’re separate from your emotional needs. “…from my sore…” – “Sore” means hurt, pain, or suffering. The verse implies that you're experiencing a deep emotional pain or hardship. “And my kinsmen stand afar off.” - "Kinsmen" are people who are related to you through blood – your family members. “Stand afar off” means they’re physically distant, not present in the same way as those you care about. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse captures a feeling of profound loneliness and isolation when we lack strong emotional connections with others. It highlights the importance of having people who are present – who are actively invested in your well-being – and who offer support, comfort, and understanding. It’s about recognizing that even when you feel alone, there are still people who care about you, but they aren't always there to help you through difficult times. Does this resonate with you? Would you like me to: Explain the context of Psalm 38 in more detail? Discuss the potential reasons behind feeling this way? Explore how this verse might be applied to a specific situation in your life?