This psalm was suggested by Absalom's rebellion and Ahithophel's treachery. But it contains references which, in their full extent, are chiefly applicable to Judas' treatment of our Lord. The terrors of the unseen, the stealthy tread of the assassin, the treachery of a friend, the drawn sword under unctuous speech-such were the bitter ingredients mingled for this deeply-tried soul. But we have all known something of his disappointment and anguish, and have longed for the swift wings of a dove to escape to the bosom of God.
One of the Puritans says: "My Spouse is ascended higher than the highest heavens, and I, poor soul, am left desolate and disconsolate in this valley of tears. The weight of my weakness and my sins doth so clog and shackle me, so glue and nail me to the earth, that I cannot rise. Let Him descend and give me wings whereby I may ascend." Who will give-humility. Who will give wings-celerity. Like a dove-innocence. Fly away-aspirations to the Lord, "whom having not seen, we love." Rest-permanent security. [source]
Chapter Summary: Psalms 55
1David in his prayer complains of his fearful case 9He prays against his enemies, of whose wickedness and treachery he complains 16He comforts himself in God's preservation oh him, and confusion of his enemies
What do the individual words in Psalms 55:5 mean?
Fearfulnessand tremblinghave comeupon meand has overwhelmed mehorror
Parse: Conjunctive waw, Verb, Piel, Consecutive imperfect, third person feminine singular, first person common singular
Root: כָּסָה
Sense: to cover, conceal, hide.