What is the meaning of Psalm 89:48? What man can live and never see death? Psalm 89:48 opens with a sober reminder: “What man can live and never see death?”. Scripture speaks with one voice on this point: • Genesis 3:19 confirms that our bodies return to dust—death is part of the curse of sin. • Ecclesiastes 3:19-20 notes that “all go to one place; all are from dust, and all return to dust.” • Hebrews 9:27 underscores that “it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment.” These passages, taken literally, show that physical death is universal and unavoidable for every descendant of Adam (Romans 5:12). Human strength, wisdom, or wealth cannot extend life indefinitely; the psalmist’s rhetorical statement simply echoes a reality observed from the beginning of history (Joshua 23:14). Can he deliver his soul from the power of Sheol? The verse continues: “Can he deliver his soul from the power of Sheol?”. “Sheol” refers to the realm of the dead, the place where life is beyond human reach. Scripture confirms that no one can ransom himself: • Psalm 49:7-9 plainly states, “No man can redeem his brother or give to God a ransom for him.” • Yet Psalm 49:15 immediately adds hope: “But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol, for He will receive me.” • Jonah 2:6 records the prophet’s cry “from the pit,” showing only God can raise one up. The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of that hope in Jesus Christ. John 11:25 records Him saying, “I am the resurrection and the life.” At the cross and empty tomb He “destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10). Believers therefore trust that “God has not destined us for wrath but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:9), a deliverance we cannot manufacture ourselves. Selah “Selah” invites a pause—an intentional moment to weigh what has just been sung or read. The psalmist wants the reader to stop and reflect, just as Psalm 4:4 urges, “Meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still.” • Life is brief, so numbering our days matters (Psalm 90:12). • Death is certain, so living in light of eternity matters (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Only God can redeem, so trusting Him now matters (John 3:16). summary Psalm 89:48 reminds every reader of two unchangeable truths: death is inevitable, and self-salvation is impossible. Yet throughout Scripture God promises—and in Christ provides—the only remedy. Pausing at “Selah,” the wise heart embraces that promise, resting in the Redeemer who alone delivers from the power of Sheol and grants eternal life. |
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