King James Version
Psalms 89:48 in the King James Version says “What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave? Selah.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 89 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave? Selah.”
Psalms 89:48 · KJV
How long, LORD? wilt thou hide thyself for ever? shall thy wrath burn like fire?
Remember how short my time is: wherefore hast thou made all men in vain?
What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave? Selah.
Lord, where are thy former lovingkindnesses, which thou swarest unto David in thy truth?
Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants; how I do bear in my bosom the reproach of all the mighty people;
KJV Study — Public Domain
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
“is he that liveth”
H2421to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“and shall not see”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
“death”
H4194death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
“shall he deliver”
H4422properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn
“his soul”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
“from the hand”
H3027a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
“of the grave”
H7585hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
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 89:48 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 89:48 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge