I think this phrase can be taken literally. It refers to the pain experienced as the time of death approaches. This phrase appears in the lyrics of "Seasons in the Sun," which was hit song by Terry Jacks. You can view the lyrics here: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/onehitwonders/seasonsinthesunlyrics.html .

"we need" sorry

hi; I think that it mean that everybody has fear from death. we nee some faith. bye