Psalm 144:4 Man is like to vanity: his days are as a shadow that passes away. : — I. A SHADOW IS COMPOUNDED OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS; for when no object intercepts the light of the sun, or when the light of the sun is withdrawn, no shadow is produced. In like manner, the state of man in the present world is made up of joy and sorrow; while, as in the emblem, the latter greatly preponderates. II. A SHADOW SEEMS TO BE SOMETHING, WHEN IN REALITY IT IS NOTHING. If you grasp it, you prove its emptiness. The pleasures, riches, and honours of the present world seem important to the eye of the carnal mind when viewed at a little distance; they attract attention, excite desire, and are eagerly pursued. But when, the object being attained, they are closely examined, how empty and unsatisfactory do they prove! III. A SHADOW IS THE SUBJECT OF CONTINUAL CHANGES, TILL AT LENGTH IT FINALLY AND SUDDENLY CEASES. In the morning, when the sun first rises above the horizon, it is weak and extended to a great length. Towards noon it gains strength, and is contracted in its dimensions. From thence to sunset it gradually becomes less distinct, and at last suddenly and wholly disappears. Man, survey in this emblem thy life l How lively and affecting the description! (Cf. Job 14:1, 2; James 4:14). IV. A. SHADOW CANNOT EXIST LONGER THAN THE SUN'S CONTINUANCE ABOVE THE HORIZON, AND IS EVERY MOMENT LIABLE TO ANNIHILATION BY THE INTERVENTION OF A CLOUD. In like manner, human life generally lasts but threescore years and ten, or four-score years; and may, by a sudden accident or the power of disease, be much curtailed. V. A SHADOW, WHEN GONE, LEAVES NO TRACK OF ITS EXISTENCE BEHIND. This also is the case with the riches, pleasures, and honours of the world. This world is no further substantial, or of importance, than as it stands connected with the next. (The Christian Guardian.) Parallel Verses KJV: Man is like to vanity: his days are as a shadow that passeth away.WEB: Man is like a breath. His days are like a shadow that passes away. |
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