I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted.
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
I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up. His affliction had now lasted so long that he could hardly remember when it commenced; it seemed to him as if he had been at death's door ever since he was a child.
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