Psalms 80:6

Key Reflection

In first-century Palestine, the imagery of "bread of tears" vividly conveyed the suffering and hardship experienced by the people. This phrase suggested that their daily bread was mixed with weeping, indicating a life of constant struggle and sorrow. The mention of "giving them tears to drink in large measure" amplified this idea, emphasizing the abundance and intensity of their distress. For the original audience, these words would have evoked memories of harsh conditions, possibly referencing specific historical events like exile or oppressive taxation that brought such tears and bread into their daily lives.