Throughout the Scriptures the phrase "a thousand years" is many times used symbolically, sometimes to contrast the mortal sense of time with the spiritual idea of eternity. Thus does the psalmist say of the Almighty, "A thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past;" then, after some mournful reflections upon the briefness and uncertainty of mortal experience, he prays, "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.