What does it mean for sorrow to become your 'daily bread'? This verse paints a vivid, gut-wrenching picture of suffering so deep it replaces nourishment.

Imagine not having regular food, but instead, your only 'sustenance' is grief. That's the powerful image here. The psalmist isn't just saying they were sad; he's saying their suffering was so constant and overwhelming that it became their daily portion, like bread they had to 'consume' each day.

• Daily Reality: Bread is essential, eaten every day. 'Bread of tears' means sorrow was a constant, unavoidable part of their lives, like a daily meal.
• Metaphorical Hunger: They were metaphorically starving for comfort, peace, and relief, but all they received was more pain. Their tears were their 'food'.

The verse mentions "tears to drink in full measure." What does that 'full measure' signify? It speaks of an overwhelming abundance of grief.

The phrase 'in great measure' isn't just about quantity; it points to the depth and totality of their suffering. Scholars suggest the original word might refer to a specific, though perhaps large, measure, like a 'third part' of a larger container. Regardless of the exact measure, the point is clear:

• Abundance of Grief: They weren't just experiencing a little sadness; they were drinking tears in overwhelming amounts. It was a 'full measure,' leaving no room for anything else.
• God's Awareness: This language shows that God is keenly aware of the extent of their pain. He sees the 'full measure' of their tears, even when they feel forgotten.