◄ Psalm 55:4 ►
My heart murmurs within me, and the terrors of death assail me.
Study Bible
My heart
The Hebrew word for "heart" here is "לֵב" (lev), which often signifies the inner self, the seat of emotions, thoughts, and will. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the heart was considered the center of one's being, encompassing not just emotions but also intellect and moral character. The psalmist's use of "my heart" indicates a deeply personal and internal struggle, reflecting the profound emotional turmoil he is experiencing.

is in anguish
The phrase "is in anguish" translates from the Hebrew "חִיל" (chil), which conveys a sense of writhing or trembling, often associated with childbirth. This vivid imagery suggests an intense, overwhelming pain that is both physical and emotional. The psalmist is expressing a level of distress that is consuming and all-encompassing, akin to the labor pains of giving birth, which were well understood in the ancient world as a metaphor for extreme suffering.

within me
The Hebrew "בְּקִרְבִּי" (beqirbi) means "within" or "in the midst of." This phrase emphasizes the internal nature of the psalmist's suffering. It is not merely an external affliction but something that deeply affects his inner being. The use of "within me" underscores the personal and intimate nature of his anguish, highlighting that this is a struggle that is deeply rooted in his soul.

the terrors of death
The word "terrors" comes from the Hebrew "מוֹת" (maveth), which can mean death or the realm of the dead. The "terrors of death" suggests a fear that is paralyzing and overwhelming. In the ancient world, death was often seen as the ultimate enemy, a force that was both inevitable and terrifying. The psalmist's mention of "terrors" indicates a profound fear of mortality and the unknown, a common human experience that resonates with the reader's own fears and anxieties.

have beset me
The phrase "have beset me" is derived from the Hebrew "נָפַל" (naphal), meaning to fall upon or attack. This conveys the idea of being surrounded or overwhelmed by enemies. The psalmist feels as though he is under siege, with no escape from the relentless assault of his fears and anxieties. This imagery of being beset by terrors paints a picture of a soul in crisis, seeking refuge and deliverance from the overwhelming forces that threaten to consume him.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 55, David is expressing his deep emotional turmoil and fear, likely during a time of betrayal or intense personal crisis.

2. Jerusalem
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of David's life often revolves around Jerusalem, the city of David, which serves as a backdrop for many of his psalms.

3. Betrayal
The broader context of Psalm 55 suggests an event of betrayal, possibly by a close friend or advisor, which contributes to David's distress.
Teaching Points
Understanding Emotional Turmoil
Recognize that even a man after God's own heart, like David, experienced deep emotional distress and fear. This normalizes our own struggles and encourages us to bring them before God.

The Reality of Fear
Fear is a powerful emotion that can assail us, but it is also an opportunity to turn to God for comfort and strength. The Hebrew word for "terrors" (ballahot) emphasizes the overwhelming nature of these fears.

Seeking God in Crisis
In times of crisis, like David, we should pour out our hearts to God. This psalm teaches us the importance of honest prayer and reliance on God during our darkest moments.

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a vital tool in combating fear and anxiety. By expressing our fears to God, we open ourselves to His peace and guidance.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Despite the immediate fears and threats, trusting in God's ultimate control and plan provides a foundation for peace and hope.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does David's expression of fear in Psalm 55:4 resonate with your own experiences of fear or anxiety?

2. In what ways can the account of Absalom's rebellion and Ahithophel's betrayal (2 Samuel 15-17) provide insight into the emotional context of Psalm 55?

3. How can Philippians 4:6-7 guide us in responding to the "terrors" we face in our own lives?

4. What practical steps can you take to bring your fears before God in prayer, following David's example?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty help you cope with the fears and uncertainties you encounter?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 56
This psalm also reflects David's fear and trust in God amidst threats, showing a pattern of seeking divine refuge.

2 Samuel 15-17
The account of Absalom's rebellion and Ahithophel's betrayal provides a historical backdrop that may parallel the emotional and spiritual crisis David describes in Psalm 55.

Philippians 4:6-7
Paul speaks about anxiety and the peace of God, offering a New Testament perspective on dealing with fear and distress.
Sermons
On the Fear of DeathT. S. Jones, D. D.Psalm 55:4
Out of the Deep of Fear and AnxietyCharles KingsleyPsalm 55:4
The Fear of DeathJ. M. Capes.Psalm 55:4
The True and the False Way of Encountering the Difficulties of LifeC. Short Psalm 55:1-8
The Compassionable, the Commendable, and the Censurable in LifeHomilistPsalm 55:1-23
The Outcry of a Soul in DistressT. W. Chambers, D. D.Psalm 55:1-23
People
David, Psalmist
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Anguish, Assail, Death, Deeply, Fallen, Fear, Heart, Pained, Severely, Sore, Terrors, Within, Wounded, Writhe, Writhing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 55:4

     5014   heart, human
     5782   agony

Psalm 55:4-5

     5561   suffering, nature of
     8754   fear

Psalm 55:4-8

     5058   rest, spiritual

Psalm 55:4-14

     5799   bitterness

Library
July 9. "Cast Thy Burden on the Lord" (Ps. Lv. 22).
"Cast thy burden on the Lord" (Ps. lv. 22). Dear friends, sometimes we bring a burden to God, and we have such a groaning over it, and we seem to think God has a dreadful time, too, but in reality it does not burden Him at all. God says: It is a light thing for Me to do this for you. Your load, though heavy for you, is not heavy for Him. Christ carries the whole on one shoulder, not two shoulders. The government of the world is upon His shoulder. He is not struggling and groaning with it. His mighty …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Out of the Deep of Fear and Anxiety.
My heart is disquieted within me. Tearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and an horrible dread hath overwhelmed me.--Ps. lv. 4. Thou hast proved and visited my heart in the night season--Ps. xvii. 3. Nevertheless though I am sometimes afraid, yet put I my trust in Thee.--Ps. lv. 3. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?--Ps. xxvii. 1. I sought the Lord and He heard me and delivered me from all my fear.--Ps. …
Charles Kingsley—Out of the Deep

The Arrest
Our study of the closing scenes of the life of our Lord begins at the point where He fell into the hands of the representatives of justice; and this took place at the gate of Gethsemane and at the midnight hour. On the eastern side of Jerusalem, the ground slopes downwards to the bed of the Brook Kedron; and on the further side of the stream rises the Mount of Olives. The side of the hill was laid out in gardens or orchards belonging to the inhabitants of the city; and Gethsemane was one of these. …
James Stalker—The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ

If Then to Sin, that Others May not Commit a Worse Sin...
21. If then to sin, that others may not commit a worse sin, either against us or against any, without doubt we ought not; it is to be considered in that which Lot did, whether it be an example which we ought to imitate, or rather one which we ought to avoid. For it seems meet to be more looked into and noted, that, when so horrible an evil from the most flagitious impiety of the Sodomites was impending over his guests, which he wished to ward off and was not able, to such a degree may even that just …
St. Augustine—Against Lying

Patrick, the Apostle of the Irish.
THIS remarkable man was prepared by very peculiar circumstances for his important work; and in his instance also it may be seen, how that infinite wisdom which guides the development of the kingdom of God amongst men, is able to bring great things out of what seems insignificant to the eyes of men. Patrick, called in his native tongue Succath, was born A. D. 372, in a village between the Scottish towns of Dumbarton and Glasgow, (then appended to England,) in the village of Bonaven, since named in …
Augustus Neander—Light in the Dark Places

Concerning Persecution
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 We are now come to the last beatitude: Blessed are they which are persecuted . . '. Our Lord Christ would have us reckon the cost. Which of you intending to build a tower sitteth not down first and counteth the cost, whether he have enough to finish it?' (Luke 14:28). Religion will cost us the tears of repentance and the blood of persecution. But we see here a great encouragement that may …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New.
1. Introduction, showing the necessity of proving the similarity of both dispensations in opposition to Servetus and the Anabaptists. 2. This similarity in general. Both covenants truly one, though differently administered. Three things in which they entirely agree. 3. First general similarity, or agreement--viz. that the Old Testament, equally with the New, extended its promises beyond the present life, and held out a sure hope of immortality. Reason for this resemblance. Objection answered. 4. …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Covenant Duties.
It is here proposed to show, that every incumbent duty ought, in suitable circumstances, to be engaged to in the exercise of Covenanting. The law and covenant of God are co-extensive; and what is enjoined in the one is confirmed in the other. The proposals of that Covenant include its promises and its duties. The former are made and fulfilled by its glorious Originator; the latter are enjoined and obligatory on man. The duties of that Covenant are God's law; and the demands of the law are all made …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

Letter Xlv (Circa A. D. 1120) to a Youth Named Fulk, who Afterwards was Archdeacon of Langres
To a Youth Named Fulk, Who Afterwards Was Archdeacon of Langres He gravely warns Fulk, a Canon Regular, whom an uncle had by persuasions and promises drawn back to the world, to obey God and be faithful to Him rather than to his uncle. To the honourable young man Fulk, Brother Bernard, a sinner, wishes such joy in youth as in old age he will not regret. 1. I do not wonder at your surprise; I should wonder if you were not suprised [sic] that I should write to you, a countryman to a citizen, a monk …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis
To Suger, Abbot of S. Denis He praises Suger, who had unexpectedly renounced the pride and luxury of the world to give himself to the modest habits of the religious life. He blames severely the clerk who devotes himself rather to the service of princes than that of God. 1. A piece of good news has reached our district; it cannot fail to do great good to whomsoever it shall have come. For who that fear God, hearing what great things He has done for your soul, do not rejoice and wonder at the great …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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