Definition: My wounds stink [and] are corrupt because of my foolishness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 38:5 – it’s a really powerful and poignant verse. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about feeling deeply hurt and uncomfortable with yourself. It says that you’re experiencing pain because of your own mistakes or poor choices. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “My wounds stink” : This isn't just a literal smell; it represents deep emotional pain. Think of it like a sore spot, an ache in your heart. It suggests something is deeply wrong and causing you distress. “and are corrupt because of my foolishness” : This is the key part. “Foolishness” means making mistakes, being careless, or acting without thinking things through. It’s about a lack of wisdom and good judgment. So, what does it mean in a nutshell? It means that you're experiencing emotional pain because you've made choices that aren't right or that have led to mistakes. You're feeling ashamed and burdened by your own shortcomings. The Context: Psalm 38 is a song of sorrow – it’s written during a time of difficulty, likely after a bad experience. The writer acknowledges their pain and feels humbled before God. It's about recognizing that we are all flawed and prone to making mistakes. Overall Message: This verse encourages us to take responsibility for our actions and to seek forgiveness. It’s a reminder that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s okay to feel pain when you’ve made them. The important thing is to learn from those mistakes and strive to do better in the future. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about how this verse relates to personal struggles?