How does Psalm 22:12 connect to Jesus' suffering on the cross? Psalm 22:12—The Prophetic Picture “Many bulls surround me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle me.” What the Image Meant in David’s Day - “Bulls of Bashan” were famous in Israel’s history for their size, strength, and aggressiveness (Deuteronomy 32:14; Amos 4:1). - David paints a scene of a helpless sufferer hemmed in by powerful, hostile forces. - The word “encircle” suggests suffocating nearness—no avenue of escape. How the Image Is Realized at the Cross - Christ is literally surrounded: - Roman soldiers (Matthew 27:27–31). - Sneering religious leaders (Matthew 27:41–43). - Scoffing onlookers (Luke 23:35–36). - The “strong bulls” picture the raw, unrestrained power arrayed against Him—military, religious, political, and demonic (Luke 22:53; Colossians 2:15). - The encirclement matches the circular arrangement around Golgotha, with Jesus at the center. Connections to Other Verses in Psalm 22 - v. 7 “all who see Me mock Me” ↔ repeated taunts at the cross. - v. 16 “they pierced My hands and feet” ↔ nails driven through Jesus’ wrists and feet (John 20:25–27). - v. 18 “they divide My garments” ↔ soldiers casting lots (Matthew 27:35). New Testament Echoes - Mark 15:29 — passersby “wagging their heads,” paralleling the hostility of the “bulls.” - Hebrews 12:2 — Jesus “endured the cross, scorning its shame,” showing He faced and conquered the surrounding hatred. - Acts 4:27 — Herod, Pontius Pilate, Gentiles, and Israel plotted together “in this city,” a direct fulfillment of the gathered “strong bulls.” Why the Comparison Matters - Underscores the literal accuracy of messianic prophecy—events written a millennium earlier unfold word-for-word at Calvary. - Reveals the intensity of Jesus’ physical, emotional, and spiritual pressure; He bore not only pain but overwhelming opposition. - Strengthens faith: if God foretold and fulfilled this scene, He can be trusted with every promise He makes (2 Corinthians 1:20). Takeaway for Believers - When pressures “encircle” us, we remember the Savior who was surrounded yet victorious (John 16:33). - The cross turns apparent triumph of evil into God’s greatest triumph, assuring us that no enemy force can thwart His redemptive plan (Romans 8:31–39). |
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