Die Zeit unseres Lebens währt siebzig Jahre, wenn es hochkommt, achtzig. Das beste daran ist nur Mühsal und Verhängnis“ (PS 90,10). Das Alter in der Bibel – Segen oder Fluch?
“The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away” (Ps 90,10). The Age in the Bible – Blessing or Curse?

Summary/Abstract: Since the Bible is not a systematical work, it is not easy to answer the question of how ageing is viewed by biblical texts unambiguously. One of the reasons is the perception of ageing in biblical times. Generally old people were appreciated for their life experience and wisdom; they should be respected accordingly. Old age was also seen as a reward for a godly life. This also explains why particularly important figures in the history of salvation and models of faith were “awarded” with old age.

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