What is meant by the phrase “gnash their teeth”?

Thomas R. Valletta

“The description of the wicked as ‘weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth’ upon their receiving the divine decrees pronounced upon them is common in scripture (D&C 19:5; 85:9; 101:91; 124:8, 52; 133:73; Alma 40:13; Moses 1:22; Matt. 8:12). … In the literal sense, the gnashing of teeth consists in grinding and striking the teeth together in anger. This expressive act, indicative of hate and violent animosity was adopted by the prophets as the proverbial way of portraying the intensity of the weeping, wailing, and sorrow of the ungodly. Wicked men gnash their teeth at the anointed of the Lord in this life” (Brewster, Doctrine and Covenants Encyclopedia, 213).

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