Psalms 55:20

20 My friend attacked his allies, breaking his covenant.

Psalms 55:20 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 55:20

He hath put forth his hands
The psalmist returns and describes, in this verse ( Psalms 55:3 ) , the cruelty, perfidy, and hypocrisy of his false friend; who had stretched forth his hands

against such as be at peace with him,
or he pretended to be at peace with. So Ahithophel put forth his hands against David, by whom he had been admitted into his privy council, and there had taken sweet counsel together, by entering into a conspiracy and rebellion against him, and by forming a scheme to smite the king only, ( 2 Samuel 17:1 2 Samuel 17:2 ) ; and Judas, though he did not lay hands on Christ himself, yet he gave his enemies a sign by which they might know him, and seize him, and hold him fast, as they did; and him Christ calls the man of his peace, ( Psalms 41:9 ) ; they being at peace when he lifted up his heel against him;

he hath broken his covenant;
of friendship that was made between them; he proved false and treacherous, broke through his engagements, and violated his faith.

Psalms 55:20 In-Context

18 He saves me, unharmed, from my struggle, though there are many who are out to get me.
19 God, who is enthroned from ancient days, will hear and humble them Selah because they don't change and they don't worship God.
20 My friend attacked his allies, breaking his covenant.
21 Though his talk is smoother than butter, war is in his heart; though his words are more silky than oil, they are really drawn swords:
22 "Cast your burden on the LORD— he will support you! God will never let the righteous be shaken!"
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