King James Version
Psalms 18:5 in the King James Version says “The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. sorrows: or, cords” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. sorrows: or, cords”
Psalms 18:5 · KJV
I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. ungodly men: Heb. Belial
The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. sorrows: or, cords
In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.
Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“of hell”
H7585hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
“compassed me about”
H5437to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
“prevented”
H6923to project (one self), i.e., precede; hence, to anticipate, hasten, meet (usually for help)
“the snares”
H4170a noose (for catching animals) (literally or figuratively); by implication, a hook (for the nose)
“of death”
H4194death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Psalms 18:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 18:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge