Psalms 88:3

For my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

שָֽׂבְעָ֣ה

H7646

is full

to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

בְרָע֣וֹת

H7451

of troubles

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

נַפְשִׁ֑י

H5315

For my soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

וְחַיַּ֗י

H2416

and my life

alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

לִשְׁא֥וֹל

H7585

unto the grave

hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates

הִגִּֽיעוּ׃

H5060

draweth nigh

properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing life contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding life in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?