What does Psalm chapter 88 mean?

Scripture often records blunt statements about human pain. Many convey open frustration about how God has reacted to their situation (Psalm 73:2–3; Habakkuk 1:2–4). Almost all end with resolve or reassurance (Psalm 73:15–18; Habakkuk 3:17–19). Psalm 88, however, only expresses the psalmist's angst. This psalm is credited both to the Sons of Korah—a group of temple musicians—and to someone named Heman. This may be the same person mentioned in other passages (1 Kings 4:31; 1 Chronicles 2:6). The word ezrāh literally means "native," so some suggest Heman the Ezrahite was of Canaanite ancestry.

Heman's description of his condition is dire. He feels near to death; in fact, he might as well be dead, buried, and forgotten. This comes with a sense that the Lord has turned on him in anger. This feeling of God's wrath is overwhelming, like drowning in rough seas. To make matters worse, close friends have abandoned the psalmist. He feels trapped and hopeless under what seems like the Lord's vicious punishment (Psalm 88:1–9).

Part of the psalmist's frustration is his belief that the dead cannot praise God (Psalm 6:5). The appeal challenges God by pointing out that the psalmist's death would stop him from worship (Psalm 88:10–12).

During this experience, the psalmist feels crushed and flooded, as if under siege. He feels abandoned by the Lord, as if God is discarding him and only sending attacks. Even the psalmist's relatives and trusted friends have turned on him. The final phrase of the psalm can be interpreted to mean that the only remaining friend is darkness, itself (Psalm 88:13–18).