2 Samuel 22:6

The cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me.

Study Bible

The cords of Sheol
The term "cords" in Hebrew is "חֶבֶל" (chebel), which can mean a rope or a binding force. In the ancient Near Eastern context, ropes or cords were often used to symbolize the binding power of death or the grave. "Sheol" refers to the abode of the dead, a shadowy place where the departed spirits reside. In the Hebrew mindset, Sheol was a place of darkness and separation from the living. This phrase conveys a sense of being trapped or ensnared by the inevitability of death, highlighting the psalmist's feeling of being overwhelmed by mortal peril. The imagery of cords suggests a struggle against forces that are beyond human control, emphasizing the need for divine intervention.

entangled me
The Hebrew word "סָבַב" (sabab) means to surround or encircle. This word paints a vivid picture of being caught in a web or net, unable to escape. The psalmist is expressing a profound sense of being overwhelmed by circumstances that threaten his life. Historically, this could reflect David's numerous encounters with death, whether from enemies or other dangers. The feeling of entanglement suggests a loss of freedom and autonomy, a common human experience when faced with life's trials. It underscores the desperation and helplessness that drive one to seek God's deliverance.

the snares of death
"Snares" in Hebrew is "מוֹקֵשׁ" (moqesh), which refers to traps or devices used for capturing animals. In a spiritual sense, these snares represent the various threats and temptations that can lead to physical or spiritual demise. The "snares of death" symbolize the ever-present dangers that threaten to pull the psalmist away from life and into destruction. This imagery is powerful, as it evokes the cunning and deceitful nature of such traps, reminding believers of the vigilance needed to avoid spiritual pitfalls. It also reflects the reality of living in a fallen world where death is an ever-present enemy.

confronted me
The Hebrew word "קָדַם" (qadam) means to meet or face. This term suggests an aggressive encounter, as if death itself is personified and actively pursuing the psalmist. The confrontation with death is not passive; it is an active, threatening presence that demands attention. Historically, David faced numerous life-threatening situations, from battles to personal betrayals, which could be seen as confrontations with death. This phrase captures the intensity of those moments when one's mortality is starkly realized, prompting a reliance on God's power to overcome such formidable challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of this song of deliverance, David is reflecting on God's deliverance from his enemies and from the hand of Saul. This chapter is a song of thanksgiving and praise to God for His protection and salvation.

2. Sheol
In Hebrew thought, Sheol is the realm of the dead, a place of darkness and separation from the living. It represents the ultimate threat and despair that David felt when he was pursued by his enemies.

3. Death
Personified here as having snares, death represents the imminent danger and threat to David's life. It is a metaphor for the perilous situations he faced.

4. Enemies of David
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of the chapter includes the various enemies David faced throughout his life, including King Saul and other adversaries.

5. God's Deliverance
The overarching event in this chapter is God's deliverance of David from his enemies, which is the central theme of this song.

Teaching Points

Understanding Despair
Recognize that even a man after God's own heart, like David, experienced deep despair and felt entangled by the cords of death. This can encourage believers to be honest about their struggles.

God's Deliverance
Emphasize that God is a deliverer who rescues His people from the depths of despair and the snares of death. Trust in His power to save.

Prayer in Distress
Encourage believers to cry out to God in their times of distress, just as David did. God hears and responds to the cries of His people.

Spiritual Warfare
Understand that the snares of death can also represent spiritual battles. Equip yourself with the armor of God to stand firm against these threats.

Hope in Resurrection
Reflect on the ultimate deliverance from death through Jesus Christ, who conquered the grave and offers eternal life to those who believe.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's experience of feeling entangled by the cords of Sheol relate to times of despair in your own life?

2. In what ways can you see God's deliverance in your life, similar to how David experienced it?

3. How can the imagery of "snares of death" inform your understanding of spiritual warfare and the need for God's protection?

4. What practical steps can you take to cry out to God in times of distress, following David's example?

5. How does the hope of resurrection through Jesus Christ provide comfort and assurance in the face of death and despair?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18
This psalm is almost identical to 2 Samuel 22 and provides additional context and insight into David's heart and his relationship with God during times of distress.

Jonah 2
Jonah's prayer from the belly of the fish echoes the themes of being entangled by the cords of death and calling out to God from the depths of Sheol.

Psalm 116
This psalm speaks of the cords of death and the anguish of the grave, similar to David's expression in 2 Samuel 22:6, highlighting God's deliverance.