King James Version
What Does Psalms 38:2 Mean?
“For thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore.”
Context
1
A Psalm of David, to bring to remembrance. O LORD, rebuke me not in thy wrath: neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.
2
For thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore.
3
There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin. rest: Heb. peace, or, health
4
For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **For thine arrows . . .**—The same figure is used of the disease from which Job suffered (elephantiasis? Job 6:4); of famine (Ezekiel 5:16); and generally of divine judgments (Deuteronomy 32:23). By itself it therefore decides nothing as to the particular cause of the Psalmist’s grief.
**Stick fast.**—Better, *have sunk into, *from a root meaning *to descend. Presseth, *in the next clause, is from the same verb. Translate, therefore,
For thine arrows have fallen deep into me,
And fallen upon me has thine hand.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
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.
Theological Significance
Psalms 38:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 38:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge