Psalms 18:5
The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.
Original Language Analysis
שְׁא֣וֹל
of hell
H7585
שְׁא֣וֹל
of hell
Strong's:
H7585
Word #:
2 of 6
hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
סְבָב֑וּנִי
compassed me about
H5437
סְבָב֑וּנִי
compassed me about
Strong's:
H5437
Word #:
3 of 6
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
קִ֝דְּמ֗וּנִי
prevented
H6923
קִ֝דְּמ֗וּנִי
prevented
Strong's:
H6923
Word #:
4 of 6
to project (one self), i.e., precede; hence, to anticipate, hasten, meet (usually for help)
Historical Context
Ancient Israelites viewed Sheol as the shadowy realm of the dead, from which only divine power could rescue. David faced literal threats that would consign him there.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's resurrection transform your relationship with death?
- What 'snares' in life feel like they're dragging you toward spiritual death?
Analysis & Commentary
Sheol's 'cords' entangled and death's 'snares' confronted David. The Hebrew 'she'ol' represents the grave and realm of the dead. The 'moqesh' (snare/trap) suggests being caught with no escape. This language appears in Peter's sermon at Pentecost describing Christ's resurrection as breaking death's cords (Acts 2:24). Reformed theology sees death as the enemy Christ conquered, freeing believers from its terror (Hebrews 2:14-15).