Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Psalms - Chapter 88 - Verse 6

88:6
Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps.

Meaning

Psalm 88:6 speaks to the profound sense of despair and hopelessness that the psalmist is experiencing. The imagery of being laid in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps, conveys the depth of suffering and isolation that the psalmist feels. This verse reflects the psalmist's feelings of abandonment by God and a sense of being overwhelmed by his circumstances. The mention of darkness and deeps accentuates the emotional and spiritual darkness that the psalmist is grappling with. The psalmist's words capture the raw, honest emotion of feeling utterly alone and abandoned.

Despite the darkness and despair expressed in this verse, it is important to note that the psalmist's cries are directed towards God. Even in the midst of his deepest suffering, the psalmist is turning to God and expressing his pain and anguish. This verse serves as a reminder that it is okay to bring our deepest struggles and darkest moments to God in prayer. It also highlights the human experience of facing challenges and hardships that can feel overwhelming and all-consuming. Ultimately, Psalm 88:6 captures the raw and honest expression of human suffering and the profound need for God's presence and comfort in the darkest of times.

Theological Overview

Psalm 88:6 describes the despair of the psalmist who feels abandoned by God and is experiencing profound suffering. The phrase "lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps" is a powerful depiction of the psalmist's emotional and spiritual state. The Hebrew word for "lowest pit" is often used to refer to a deep, muddy, and gloomy place, symbolizing a state of hopelessness and isolation. The darkness mentioned conveys the idea of obscurity, confusion, and the absence of God's light. The deeps represent the depths of distress and affliction that the psalmist finds himself in. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the psalmist's deep anguish, feeling as though he has been abandoned by God and is in the depths of despair. This powerful imagery can serve as a reminder of human suffering and the need for God's presence and comfort in times of darkness and despair.

American Standard Version

Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, In dark places, in the deeps.
Previous VerseNext Verse