Old Testament
Psalms 89:47
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Remember how short my time is; why have you made all men in vain?
Compare translations
Remember how short my time is: wherefore hast thou made all men in vain?
What Psalms 89:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist reflects on the brevity of human life and questions the purpose of existence. The phrase "how short my time is" emphasizes the fleeting nature of life, suggesting that our time on earth is limited. The second part, "why have you made all men in vain?" expresses a deep concern about the meaning of life and the struggles that people face. The psalmist is grappling with feelings of despair and questioning why God allows suffering and seemingly pointless existence. This verse captures a moment of vulnerability, where the psalmist seeks understanding from God about the purpose of life amidst its challenges. It highlights the human desire for significance and the search for answers in the face of mortality and hardship.
How to apply Psalms 89:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the time we have. It reminds us to seek purpose in our daily actions and to understand that life is short. We should strive to make meaningful choices and support others in their struggles, fostering a sense of community and purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 89:47
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 89:47
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 89:47 mean?
Psalms 89:47 expresses the psalmist's awareness of the shortness of life and questions the purpose behind human existence. It reflects a struggle with the idea of suffering and the search for meaning in a seemingly fleeting life.
What is the meaning of 'how short my time is' in Psalms 89:47?
The phrase 'how short my time is' highlights the brevity of human life, emphasizing that our time on earth is limited. It serves as a reminder to consider the significance of our actions and the urgency of finding purpose.
Why does the psalmist question God in Psalms 89:47?
The psalmist questions God to express feelings of despair and confusion about the purpose of life amidst suffering. This questioning reflects a deep yearning for understanding and meaning in the face of mortality.
How can I apply Psalms 89:47 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 89:47 by reflecting on the limited time you have and seeking purpose in your daily actions. It encourages making meaningful choices and supporting others, fostering a sense of community and significance.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.