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Book of Psalms - Chapter 18 - Verse 4

18:4
The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Psalms describes a moment of intense distress and fear experienced by the speaker. The phrase "The sorrows of death compassed me" conveys the feeling of being overwhelmed by the threat of death, with sorrow and despair closing in from all sides. The image of "floods of ungodly men" adds to the sense of danger and hopelessness, as the speaker is surrounded by wicked individuals who inspire fear and anxiety. This verse captures the universal human experience of facing overwhelming challenges and feeling besieged by forces that seek to harm or destroy. The speaker's vulnerability and fear are powerful reminders of the need for faith and trust in God's deliverance in times of trouble.

Theological Overview

The phrase "The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid" from the Bible (Psalm 18:4) reflects the psalmist's deep anguish and fear in the face of overwhelming adversity. The word "sorrows" emphasizes the intense emotional pain and distress caused by the threat of death. In this context, death can be understood not only as a physical threat but also as a metaphor for spiritual separation from God. The word "compassed" suggests being surrounded or enclosed, indicating the psalmist's feeling of being trapped and overwhelmed by these sorrows.

The phrase "floods of ungodly men" signifies attacks from wicked and immoral individuals who seek to harm the psalmist. These individuals are described as "ungodly" to highlight their rebellion against God's laws and their lack of moral integrity. The image of floods conveys a sense of overwhelming power and destruction, evoking fear and helplessness in the face of such overwhelming opposition.

Overall, this verse offers a poignant depiction of the psalmist's desperate situation, beset by both internal and external threats. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we gain a deeper understanding of the psalmist's emotional turmoil and the challenges they face, ultimately pointing towards the need for divine intervention and deliverance.

American Standard Version

The cords of death compassed me, And the floods of ungodliness made me afraid.
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