Do You work wonders for the dead? Do departed spirits rise up to praise You? Selah
This psalm pours forth grievous lamentations from one nearly at despair, yet even in deep darkness he calls upon God to deliver him, displaying an invincible steadfastness of faith. The occasion remains debated: some hold it the prayer of a leper isolated by the law, others the voice of captive Israel in chains, yet all agree it speaks the language of one whom God has struck down.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 88:1-18
Why should I die? While I live, You display the glories of Your grace through me, but the dead cannot show Your wonders. Once I pass into the unknown land, You will lose a worshipper who reverenced and illustrated Your character. Ghosts sing no joyous Psalms; the grave sends forth no notes of thanksgiving.
AI summary
He pleads with God: shall the dead praise You? They cannot; the grave is the land of forgetfulness. But hear me now, Lord, for You are good, faithful, and righteous. These attributes must be known in my deliverance, yet if relief is delayed, I shall be dead and past comfort. Hasten, or Your mercy comes too late.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 88:10-18