Psalms 44:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel is killed continually for God's sake and treated as sheep awaiting slaughter.
The Context of Psalms 44:22
Israel's statement that their killing is connected to covenant faithfulness.
What Does Psalms 44:22 Mean?
'For thy sake' reframes the suffering: Israel is being killed not because of their own faithlessness but in connection with God and their covenant with Him. 'Killed all the day long' suggests ongoing, continuous death—not a single catastrophic event but relentless attrition. The phrase emphasizes that this is not momentary but a perpetual condition.
'Counted as sheep for the slaughter' repeats imagery from verse 11, but with new emphasis: counting sheep for slaughter is a deliberate, intentional process of preparing for death. Israel sees itself as pre-destined by God for destruction. This statement raises the deepest question: if Israel is faithful and killed for God's sake (in connection with covenant relationship), is there purpose or redemption in this suffering, or is it senseless?
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 44:22
What does Psalms 44:22 mean?
Israel is killed continually for God's sake and treated as sheep awaiting slaughter.
What is the context of Psalms 44:22?
Israel's statement that their killing is connected to covenant faithfulness.