King James Version
What Does Psalms 88:15 Mean?
“I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted.”
Context
13
But unto thee have I cried, O LORD; and in the morning shall my prayer prevent thee.
14
LORD, why castest thou off my soul? why hidest thou thy face from me?
15
I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted.
16
Thy fierce wrath goeth over me; thy terrors have cut me off.
17
They came round about me daily like water; they compassed me about together. daily: or, all the day
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15) **Terrors.**—Another of the many expressions which connect this psalm with the book of Job. (See Job 6:4; Job 9:34, &c.)
**Distracted.**—The Hebrew word is peculiar to the place. The ancient versions all agree in taking it as a verb, and rendering it by some general term denoting “trouble.” But the context evidently requires a stronger word, and possibly connecting with a cognate word meaning “wheel,” we may get, “I turn giddy.” A change of a stroke in one letter would give “I grow frigid.” (Comp. Psalm 38:8.)
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 88:15 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 88:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge