Psalm 55:20

20 He has reached forth his hand for retribution; they have profaned his covenant.

Psalm 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.

Psalm 55:20 In-Context

18 He shall deliver my soul in peace from them that draw nigh to me: for they were with me in many cases.

19 God shall hear, and bring them low, even he that has existed from eternity. Pause.

20 He has reached forth his hand for retribution; they have profaned his covenant.

21 They were scattered at the anger of his countenance, and his heart drew nigh them. His words were smoother than oil, yet are they darts.

22 Cast thy care upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee; he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.