Old Testament
Psalms 88:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of despair and abandonment.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Your fierce wrath goes over me; your terrors have cut me off.
Thy fierce wrath goeth over me; thy terrors have cut me off.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of despair and abandonment. The imagery of 'fierce wrath' suggests that the psalmist feels overwhelmed by God's anger, as if it is a powerful force that engulfs him. The phrase 'your terrors have cut me off' indicates a feeling of isolation and separation from God, as if the psalmist is surrounded by fear and cannot find solace. This verse captures the emotional turmoil of someone who feels punished and alone, highlighting the struggle between faith and the experience of suffering. The psalmist is not just lamenting personal pain but is also wrestling with the perception of God’s distance during times of distress. This raw expression of anguish is a reminder that it is okay to bring our deepest fears and feelings to God, even when they are filled with doubt and despair.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 88:16 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges or feelings of abandonment, it’s important to acknowledge those emotions honestly. This verse encourages us to bring our fears and struggles to God, trusting that He hears us even in our darkest moments. Seeking support from others can also help.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 88:16 mean?
Psalms 88:16 expresses the psalmist's feeling of being overwhelmed by God's anger and experiencing deep isolation. The verse highlights the emotional pain of feeling cut off from God during distress.
What is the meaning of 'fierce wrath' in Psalms 88:16?
The phrase 'fierce wrath' in Psalms 88:16 indicates a powerful and intense feeling of anger from God that the psalmist feels is surrounding him, contributing to his sense of despair.
How does Psalms 88:16 relate to feelings of isolation?
Psalms 88:16 relates to feelings of isolation by illustrating how the psalmist feels cut off from God due to overwhelming fear and despair, emphasizing the struggle of feeling alone in suffering.
What emotions are expressed in Psalms 88:16?
Psalms 88:16 expresses emotions of despair, fear, and isolation, as the psalmist grapples with feelings of being punished and abandoned by God.
The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.