◄ Psalm 55 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Cast Your Burden upon the LORD (2 Samuel 17:15–29) For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments. A Maskila of David. 1 Listen to my prayer, O God, and do not ignore my plea. 2Attend to me and answer me. I am restless in my complaint, and distraught 3at the voice of the enemy, at the pressure of the wicked. For they bring down disaster upon me and resent me in their anger. 4My heart pounds within me, and the terrors of death assail me. 5Fear and trembling grip me, and horror has overwhelmed me. 6I said, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and find rest. 7How far away I would flee! In the wilderness I would remain. Selah 8I would hurry to my shelter, far from this raging tempest.” 9O Lord, confuse and confound their speech, for I see violence and strife in the city. 10Day and night they encircle the walls, while malice and trouble lie within. 11Destruction is within; oppression and deceit never leave the streets. 12For it is not an enemy who insults me; that I could endure. It is not a foe who rises against me; from him I could hide. 13But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend. 14We shared sweet fellowship together; we walked with the crowd into the house of God. 15Let death seize them by surprise; let them go down to Sheol alive, for evil is with them in their homes. 16But I call to God, and the LORD saves me. 17Morning, noon, and night, I cry out in distress, and He hears my voice. 18He redeems my soul in peace from the battle waged against me, even though many oppose me. 19God will hear and humiliate them— the One enthroned for the ages— Selah because they do not change and they have no fear of God. 20My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. 21His speech is smooth as butter, but war is in his heart. His words are softer than oil, yet they are swords unsheathed. 22Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken. 23But You, O God, will bring them down to the Pit of destruction; men of bloodshed and deceit will not live out half their days. But I will trust in You. Footnotes: 1 a Maskil is probably a musical or liturgical term; used for Psalms 32, 42, 44–45, 52–55, 74, 78, 88–89, and 142. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 55 Summary Cast Your Burden upon the LORD Verses 1–3 – Plea for Attention David urgently asks God to “Give ear to my prayer… do not ignore my plea.” His distress is stirred by hostile voices and oppressive enemies who pour out anger and guilt. Verses 4–8 – Overwhelming Fear and Desire to Escape Crushing anxiety grips David’s heart. Longing for the wings of a dove, he dreams of fleeing to the wilderness, far from the “raging storm and tempest.” Verses 9–11 – City Under Siege He begs the Lord to confuse the wicked. Violence, malice, and deceit prowl day and night within the city walls, turning communal life into chaos. Verses 12–15 – Betrayal by a Close Companion The greatest wound comes not from an enemy but from a trusted friend—one who once walked with David “into the house of God.” He calls for swift judgment on those harboring evil. Verses 16–19 – Turning to God in Persistent Prayer Morning, noon, and night David cries out. God redeems him in peace and will humble those who refuse to change or fear the Lord. Verses 20–21 – Hypocrisy of the Betrayer The false friend breaks covenant, speaking “smooth as butter” while hiding war in his heart—words that cut like drawn swords. Verse 22 – Invitation to Cast Burdens on the Lord “Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” Verse 23 – Final Confidence in Divine Justice David rests in God’s verdict: the deceitful will fall to the Pit, but he will continue to trust in the Lord. Psalm 55 is a heartfelt plea from an individual who feels betrayed and overwhelmed. Traditionally believed to have been written by David, it captures the deep pain of betrayal by a close friend and articulates a fervent prayer for deliverance from enemies. The psalmist laments, wishes for escape, implores God's justice, and reaffirms faith in God's deliverance. Authorship and Setting • “A Maskil of David” identifies the psalm with King David and marks it for instruction. • Many link the crisis to the Absalom rebellion (2 Samuel 15–17), when David’s adviser Ahithophel betrayed him. The mention of worshiping together fits that storyline (2 Samuel 15:31). • The psalm also speaks beyond David’s day, giving voice to anyone wounded by treachery. Musical Notation and Liturgical Use • “For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments” shows it was meant for congregational singing. • “Selah” (vv. 7, 19) cues a pause—inviting the listener to reflect before the next surge of emotion. • Early Christian gatherings often sang the psalms; verse 22 became a favorite refrain of comfort. Historical Background: Possible Events in David’s Life 1. Ahithophel’s betrayal: 2 Samuel 15:12–31 matches the psalm’s pain. 2. Urban turmoil: verses 9–11 mirror the unrest when Absalom seized Jerusalem. 3. Flight over the Kidron and up the Mount of Olives (2 Samuel 15:30–32) echoes the psalmist’s wish to escape “far away… in the wilderness.” Language, Structure, and Hebrew Poetry • The poem alternates complaint (vv. 1–3, 9–15, 20–21) with confidence (vv. 16–19, 22–23). • Vivid metaphors—dove, storm, drawn swords—paint emotional extremes. • The middle section (vv. 12–15) is the literary center, spotlighting betrayal. Key Themes 1. Betrayal: Personal treachery wounds deeper than open hostility. 2. Honest prayer: David shows that raw emotions belong in God’s presence. 3. Persistent faith: Regular times of prayer (v. 17) anchor the soul. 4. Burden-casting: The Lord, not self-reliance, carries the weight (v. 22). 5. Divine justice: God’s timetable may seem delayed, yet judgment is sure (v. 23). Archaeological and Cultural Insights on Ancient Cities • Verses 9–11 portray a walled city under moral siege. Excavations of Iron-Age Jerusalem reveal narrow streets and crowded quarters where unrest could spread quickly. • Gate complexes uncovered in Lachish and Megiddo show how city gates served as courts; corruption in those spaces (“oppression and deceit”) would doom civic life. • The image of “walls” patrolled “day and night” suggests watchmen who could do little against internal rot. Intertextual Connections • Compare verse 6 with Isaiah 40:31—both use bird imagery for deliverance. • Verse 9’s plea for confused speech recalls Genesis 11:7 at Babel. • Verse 14 parallels Malachi 2:13–14, where covenant unfaithfulness breaks fellowship in worship. • Verse 22 is echoed in 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” • Verse 21 foreshadows the kiss of Judas in Luke 22:47–48—friendly gestures masking hidden war. Christological Pointers • Like David, Jesus was betrayed by a close companion. John 13:18 cites Psalm 41:9, but the mood of Psalm 55 deepens that experience. • Jesus also prayed amid crushing fear (Luke 22:44), trusting the Father’s plan. • The final line—“But I will trust in You”—anticipates Christ’s last words, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit” (Luke 23:46). Practical Application Today • Betrayal by a coworker, family member, or church friend still cuts deeply. Psalm 55 gives language for the hurt and a roadmap to healing. • Scheduling fixed times of prayer—morning, noon, night—cultivates resilience. • Releasing burdens to God protects against bitterness. • The psalm reminds communities to guard their “streets” (relationships, institutions) from deceit that erodes trust. Worship and Music • Many hymns borrow verse 6 (“wings like a dove”) and verse 22 (“He will sustain you”). • Modern composers set the psalm as a lament-to-hope journey, mirroring its shift from minor to major keys. • The text encourages congregations to sing both grief and faith in the same song, mirroring real life. Connections to the New Testament Church • Acts 1:20 applies Psalm 69 and 109 to Judas; the spirit of Psalm 55 also shadows that event. • Early believers under persecution echoed verse 17’s prayer rhythm (Acts 2:46). • Paul’s assurance in Philippians 4:6–7 (“present your requests to God… peace of God will guard your hearts”) mirrors David’s experience in verse 18. Summary in a Sentence Psalm 55 is a heartfelt cry from a betrayed king who, despite panic and pain, finds unshakable security by casting every burden on the Lord who hears, sustains, and judges rightly. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 11:28-30 Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Jesus invites us to find rest in Him, echoing David's desire for peace. 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. This New Testament verse reinforces the call to trust God with our burdens. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. This aligns with David's trust in God's justice. Teaching Points Cry for Help David begins with an earnest plea for God to hear his prayer. Give ear to my prayer, O God, and do not hide Yourself from my plea (Psalm 55:1). This sets the tone for the psalm, highlighting the importance of turning to God in times of distress. The Weight of Betrayal Verses 12-14 reveal the depth of David's hurt, as the betrayal comes not from an enemy, but a close companion. For it is not an enemy who insults me; otherwise I could bear it... But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend (Psalm 55:12-13). This emphasizes the profound impact of betrayal by those we trust. Desire for Escape David expresses a longing to flee from his troubles, a natural human response to overwhelming situations. Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and find rest (Psalm 55:6). This illustrates the universal desire for peace and relief from suffering. Trust in God's Justice Despite his anguish, David ultimately places his trust in God's justice. Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken (Psalm 55:22). This is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and support. Practical Applications Turn to God in Distress Like David, we should bring our troubles to God in prayer, trusting that He hears and cares for us. Acknowledge the Pain of Betrayal Recognize the deep hurt that betrayal can cause, and seek healing through God's love and grace. Seek God's Peace In moments of overwhelming stress, find solace in God's presence and the peace that surpasses understanding. Trust in God's Justice Remember that God is just and will ultimately vindicate the righteous. We can rest in His promises and timing. People 1. David The psalmist and author of Psalm 55, who is expressing his anguish and seeking deliverance from his enemies. He is deeply troubled by betrayal and is calling out to God for help. 2. God Referred to as the one whom David calls upon for deliverance and protection. David expresses his trust in God to save him from his distress and enemies. 3. Enemies/Adversaries These are the individuals or groups causing David distress. They are described as wicked and deceitful, and David feels overwhelmed by their oppression. 4. Friend/Companion In verses 12-14, David refers to a close friend or companion who has betrayed him. This person was once trusted and shared fellowship with David, making the betrayal particularly painful. The psalm does not explicitly name other individuals, but these categories capture the primary persons involved in the narrative. The Hebrew roots emphasize the personal and communal betrayal David feels, highlighting the deep emotional and spiritual impact of such experiences. Places 1. City In Psalm 55:9, the psalmist refers to the "city" as a place of turmoil and strife. The Hebrew word used here is "עִיר" (ʿîr), which generally denotes a city or town. The city represents a place of conflict and betrayal, reflecting the psalmist's distress over the chaos and wickedness he perceives within it. 2. Wilderness In Psalm 55:7, the psalmist expresses a desire to escape to the "wilderness." The Hebrew word "מִדְבָּר" (midbar) is used, which often refers to a desert or uninhabited land. The wilderness symbolizes a place of refuge and solitude, contrasting with the turmoil of the city. It represents the psalmist's longing for peace and escape from his troubles. Events 1. David's Plea for God's Attention David begins by urgently asking God to listen to his prayer and not to hide from his plea for mercy. He expresses his restlessness and distress. (Psalm 55:1-2) 2. Description of Distress He describes the voice of the enemy and the oppression of the wicked, who bring trouble upon him and harbor animosity. (Psalm 55:3) 3. Overwhelming Fear and Trembling David conveys his heart's anguish, fear, and trembling, which have overwhelmed him. (Psalm 55:4-5) 4. Desire to Escape He wishes for the wings of a dove to fly away and find rest, escaping far from the storm and tempest. (Psalm 55:6-8) 5. Call for Divine Intervention David calls on God to confuse and confound the wicked, observing violence and strife in the city. (Psalm 55:9-11) 6. Betrayal by a Close Companion He laments the betrayal by a close friend, someone with whom he once enjoyed sweet fellowship and worshiped together. (Psalm 55:12-14) 7. Prayer for Justice David prays for God to bring death upon his enemies and let them go down alive into Sheol, as evil is in their homes and hearts. (Psalm 55:15) 8. Commitment to Prayer Despite his troubles, David resolves to call upon God, confident that the Lord will save him. He mentions praying evening, morning, and noon. (Psalm 55:16-17) 9. God's Deliverance and Faithfulness He expresses faith that God will hear his voice, redeem his soul in peace, and bring justice to those who do not fear God. (Psalm 55:18-19) 10. Description of the Betrayer David describes the treachery of his companion, whose words are smoother than butter but harbor war in his heart. (Psalm 55:20-21) 11. Exhortation to Trust in God He encourages casting burdens on the Lord, who will sustain and never let the righteous be shaken. (Psalm 55:22) 12. Final Declaration of Trust David concludes with a declaration of trust in God, confident that God will bring the wicked down to the pit of destruction. (Psalm 55:23) Throughout the psalm, David's language reflects deep emotional turmoil and a reliance on God, with Hebrew roots emphasizing his earnest plea and trust in divine justice. Lessons from Psalm 55 1. Seek Refuge in Prayer In times of distress, Psalm 55 reminds us to turn to God in prayer. The psalmist begins by pleading, "Give ear to my prayer, O God, and hide not Yourself from my plea for mercy" (Psalm 55:1). This teaches us that our first response to trouble should be to seek refuge in prayer, trusting that God hears and cares for our concerns. 2. Trust in God's Deliverance The psalmist expresses confidence in God's ability to save: "He will redeem my soul in peace from the battle against me, though many are against me" (Psalm 55:18). This lesson encourages us to trust in God's deliverance, knowing that He is more powerful than any adversary we face. 3. Cast Your Burdens on the Lord Psalm 55:22 offers a timeless piece of advice: "Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken." This verse reassures us that we are not meant to carry our burdens alone. By casting them on the Lord, we find strength and stability. 4. Recognize the Pain of Betrayal The psalmist laments the betrayal of a close friend, saying, "But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend" (Psalm 55:13). This lesson acknowledges the deep pain of betrayal, yet it also points us to the One who understands our suffering and offers comfort. 5. Embrace God's Justice Psalm 55 highlights the certainty of God's justice: "God will hear and humble them, He who is enthroned from of old" (Psalm 55:19). This teaches us to rest in the assurance that God sees all and will bring justice in His perfect timing. 6. Find Peace in God's Presence The psalmist finds solace in God's presence, declaring, "Evening, morning, and noon, I will pray and cry aloud, and He will hear my voice" (Psalm 55:17). This lesson encourages us to seek God's presence throughout our day, finding peace and comfort in His constant companionship. 7. Acknowledge the Reality of Fear Psalm 55 does not shy away from the reality of fear, as the psalmist admits, "Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me" (Psalm 55:5). This honesty teaches us that it's okay to acknowledge our fears, but we must also remember to bring them before God. 8. Rely on God's Unchanging Nature The psalmist contrasts the fickleness of man with the steadfastness of God: "But You, O God, will bring them down to the pit of destruction" (Psalm 55:23). This lesson reminds us to rely on God's unchanging nature, knowing that He is faithful and true. 9. Seek God's Guidance in Conflict In the midst of conflict, the psalmist turns to God for guidance, saying, "Confuse them, O Lord, and confound their speech" (Psalm 55:9). This teaches us to seek God's wisdom and intervention when faced with discord, trusting Him to bring clarity and resolution. 10. Rest in God's Sovereignty Finally, Psalm 55 closes with a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty: "But I will trust in You" (Psalm 55:23). This lesson encourages us to rest in the knowledge that God is in control, and our ultimate hope and security are found in Him alone. Topics 1. Cry for God's Attention (Verses 1-2) David begins by pleading for God to hear his prayer and not to ignore his plea for mercy. The Hebrew root for "give ear" (הַאֲזִינָה, ha'azinah) emphasizes the urgency and desperation in David's request. 2. Description of Distress (Verses 3-5) The psalmist describes his turmoil and fear due to the oppression of the wicked. The Hebrew word for "trembling" (רַעַד, ra'ad) conveys a deep, physical response to his emotional state. 3. Desire for Escape (Verses 6-8) David expresses a longing to flee from his troubles, wishing for the wings of a dove to escape to a place of rest. This imagery highlights his desire for peace and safety. 4. Prayer for Justice (Verses 9-11) He calls on God to confuse and divide the tongues of his enemies, reminiscent of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:7). The Hebrew root for "confuse" (בָּלַל, balal) suggests a divine intervention to disrupt the plans of the wicked. 5. Betrayal by a Close Companion (Verses 12-14) David laments the betrayal by a trusted friend, which is more painful than an attack from an enemy. The personal nature of this betrayal is underscored by the Hebrew term for "companion" (רֵעַ, rea), indicating a close relationship. 6. Call for Divine Retribution (Verses 15) He prays for God to bring his enemies to ruin, expressing a desire for divine justice. The Hebrew word for "death" (מָוֶת, mavet) is used to signify the ultimate judgment. 7. Confidence in God's Deliverance (Verses 16-19) Despite his troubles, David expresses confidence that God will save him. The Hebrew root for "redeem" (פָּדָה, padah) reflects the belief in God's power to rescue and deliver. 8. Continued Betrayal and Deceit (Verses 20-21) The psalmist describes the ongoing deceit and treachery of his adversary, highlighting the contrast between outward appearances and inner malice. 9. Exhortation to Trust in God (Verse 22) David encourages others to cast their burdens on the Lord, affirming that God will sustain the righteous. The Hebrew root for "sustain" (כּוּל, kul) implies God's ability to support and uphold. 10. Assurance of God's Justice (Verse 23) The psalm concludes with a declaration of faith that God will bring the wicked down to destruction, while the righteous will trust in Him. The Hebrew term for "trust" (בָּטַח, batach) conveys a deep, abiding confidence in God's faithfulness. Themes 1. Cry for Divine Intervention The psalmist begins with a plea for God to hear his prayer and not to hide from his supplication. This theme highlights the believer's reliance on God in times of distress. ^“Give ear to my prayer, O God, and do not ignore my plea.”^ (Psalm 55:1) The Hebrew word for "plea" (תְּחִנָּה, teḥinnah) emphasizes a heartfelt request for grace and mercy. 2. Overwhelming Fear and Anxiety The psalmist expresses intense fear and trembling due to the oppression of the enemy, illustrating the human experience of anxiety. ^“My heart murmurs within me, and the terrors of death assail me.”^ (Psalm 55:4) The Hebrew word for "terrors" (פַּחַד, paḥad) conveys a deep dread or fear. 3. Desire for Escape There is a longing to escape the turmoil and find peace, symbolized by the imagery of a dove flying away. ^“Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and find rest.”^ (Psalm 55:6) This reflects the universal desire for relief from suffering. 4. Betrayal by a Close Companion The psalmist laments the betrayal by a trusted friend, which intensifies his anguish. This theme underscores the pain of personal betrayal. ^“But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend.”^ (Psalm 55:13) The Hebrew word for "companion" (אַלּוּף, alluph) indicates a close, familiar friend. 5. Call for Divine Justice The psalmist calls upon God to bring justice upon his enemies, reflecting a trust in God's righteous judgment. ^“Let death seize them by surprise; let them go down to Sheol alive.”^ (Psalm 55:15) The term "Sheol" (שְׁאוֹל, sheol) refers to the realm of the dead, emphasizing the severity of the judgment sought. 6. Confidence in God's Deliverance Despite the turmoil, there is a strong confidence that God will save and sustain the righteous. ^“Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.”^ (Psalm 55:22) The Hebrew word for "sustain" (כּוּל, kul) implies support and provision. 7. Contrast Between the Wicked and the Righteous The psalm contrasts the fate of the wicked with the security of those who trust in God, reinforcing the theme of divine justice. ^“But You, O God, will bring them down to the Pit of destruction; men of bloodshed and deceit will not live out half their days.”^ (Psalm 55:23) The "Pit of destruction" (בּוֹר שַׁחַת, bor shachat) symbolizes ultimate ruin for the wicked. Prayer Points Pray for Comfort Ask God to comfort those who are experiencing betrayal or deep emotional pain. Pray for Trust Seek God's help in trusting Him with our burdens and anxieties. Pray for Forgiveness Request the strength to forgive those who have wronged us, following Christ's example. Pray for Justice Lift up those who are suffering injustice, asking God to intervene and bring about His righteous judgment. As we reflect on Psalm 55, may we find encouragement in David's journey from despair to trust, and may we be reminded of the steadfast love and faithfulness of our God. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can we confirm the historical or archaeological authenticity of the betrayal described in Psalm 55:12–14? 2. If David wrote Psalm 55, why is there no extrabiblical record of these specific events or divine interventions? 3. Psalm 55:9 calls on God to “confuse the wicked.” Where is the historical evidence of such a miraculous mass confusion? 4. Psalm 55:22 promises God will sustain those who cast their burdens on Him. How do we reconcile this with the extensive suffering often seen in reality? 5. Psalm 55 depicts a God who intervenes quickly, yet other biblical texts describe God as silent or distant. How can these verses be harmonized? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 55 depict the experience of feeling betrayed? Can you relate to this in any way? 2. How does David express his feelings of fear and torment? Why do you think he uses the metaphor of a bird escaping to the wilderness? 3. In what ways does Psalm 55 illustrate the power of prayer in times of adversity? 4. How does David handle the feelings of betrayal? What can we learn from his approach? 5. How does David's plea for divine intervention against his enemies reflect his faith in God's justice? 6. Reflect on David's unwavering trust in God in verses 16-19. How can this inspire us in times of hardship? 7. How does the Psalm convey the idea of divine justice? 8. How can David's decision to cast his cares on God help us deal with our own worries? 9. How might the teachings of Psalm 55 apply to situations of betrayal in the modern world? 10. How can you personally relate to the themes of trust and deliverance expressed in Psalm 55? 11. How does Psalm 55 guide us in dealing with emotional pain caused by betrayal? 12. What is the significance of David's wish for escape in verses 4-8? 13. How can Psalm 55 strengthen your personal faith and trust in God during adversities? 14. In the context of this Psalm, how would you define divine justice? 15. How might you apply David's approach to betrayal in your own life? 16. In what ways does Psalm 55 depict the struggle between good and evil? 17. How does Psalm 55 shape your understanding of the relationship between human suffering and divine intervention? 18. What contemporary situations might elicit the same reactions David expresses in Psalm 55? 19. In what ways does Psalm 55 challenge or affirm your understanding of prayer? 20. How can the insights from Psalm 55 assist you in coping with feelings of despair and anxiety in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions