Commentators explain that the verse uses powerful imagery of being trapped. "Cords of Sheol" and "snares of death" depict a situation where the psalmist feels completely surrounded and entangled by mortal danger, as if caught in a hunter's net. Scholars note the original Hebrew for "came upon me" (or "prevented me") implies that these dangers suddenly appeared before him, cutting off any path of escape, painting a picture of utter helplessness.