Psalms 88:15 Meaning and Explanation
“I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist has endured affliction and death-readiness since youth, and God's terrors cause inner turmoil.
The Context of Psalms 88:15
Lifelong suffering beginning in youth, characterized by God's terrors and inner distraction.
What Does Psalms 88:15 Mean?
The reference to 'from my youth up' suggests this is a lifelong condition—not recent onset but a condition that has shaped the psalmist's entire life. 'Ready to die' (or carried into death) suggests a chronic condition of peril. This is not a single crisis but a life marked by suffering from early age.
The phrase 'suffer thy terrors' attributes the causing of fear and distraction to God directly. Being 'distracted' (confused, disturbed in mind) results from experiencing God's terrors—whatever these are (discipline, judgment, or the felt sense of God's wrath), they prevent peace and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 88:15
What does Psalms 88:15 mean?
The psalmist has endured affliction and death-readiness since youth, and God's terrors cause inner turmoil.
What is the context of Psalms 88:15?
Lifelong suffering beginning in youth, characterized by God's terrors and inner distraction.