Psalms 55:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 55:5
5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
Chapter Context
Psalms 55 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, prayer, obedience. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 55:5
5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
Analysis
The Hebrew 'pachad' (fear/terror) and 'ra'ad' (trembling) reveal David's visceral response to betrayal. This prophetically anticipates Christ's anguish in Gethsemane, where divine sovereignty met human vulnerability. The parallel in Psalm 22 and Christ's Passion demonstrates how God's elect experience genuine emotional suffering while remaining under divine providence.
Historical Context
Written during Absalom's rebellion or Ahithophel's betrayal (2 Samuel 15-17), when David faced both political crisis and personal treachery. The psalm's superscription indicates it was set to Nehiloth, possibly wind instruments, for public worship.
Reflection
- How does acknowledging fear before God differ from being overcome by it?
- In what ways does Christ's experience of anguish validate your own emotional struggles?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:120, Job 21:6