vale of tears

The phrase "vale of tears" originates from Christian doctrine and is often used to describe the world as a place of suffering and hardship.

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Definition

(idiomatic, literary)A metaphorical expression describing the world as full of sorrow and suffering.

He viewed his life as a journey through a vale of tears, constantly facing one hardship after another.

(Christianity)A term used to describe earthly life as a place of suffering, to be left behind upon entering heaven.

In her prayers, she spoke of leaving this vale of tears and finding eternal peace in heaven.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "vale of tears":