Psalms 55:20

20 As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises.

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 ransoms me and keeps me safe from the battle waged against me, though many still oppose me.

19 God, who has ruled forever, will hear me and humble them. Interlude For my enemies refuse to change their ways; they do not fear God.

20 As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises.

21 His words are as smooth as butter, but in his heart is war. His words are as soothing as lotion, but underneath are daggers!

22 Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.