Psalm 55 - Betrayal
Betrayal is one of the tragic consequences of the fallen human condition. Husbands betray wives (and vice versa), children betray parents (and vice versa). Employers betray employees (and vice versa). Friends turn against each other and become enemies. In this unique lament (complaint) psalm, the complaint to G-d morphs from a complaint against enemies to a very personal complaint against a friend who has become the enemy: “It is not an enemy who reviles me – I could bear that; it is not my foe who vaunts himself against me – I could hide from him; but it is YOU, my equal, my companion, my friend; sweet was our fellowship; we walked together in God’s house.” (v. 12-14 from the JPS)
These raw and emotional words probably touch a chord in everyone reading this psalm. We see once again how relevant the Scriptures are to modern life. We can viscerally feel the pain of the psalmist because we have felt it too. We demand of God as the psalmist does: “Give ear, O God, to my prayer; do not ignore my plea; pay heed to me and ANSWER me.” (v. 1-2)
Betrayal causes confusion. This is reflected in the Hebrew text in verses 18-21. Translators struggle with the text. The Hebrew is archaic and confusing (maybe on purpose to reflect the confusion of betrayal?). English translations mask that linguistic confusion with “clean” best guesses as to the actual meaning.
At the height of confusion, at the height of emotion caused by betrayal, the psalm ends abruptly. “Cast your burden on the LORD and he will sustain you … I trust in you.” (v. 22 – 23).
It’s that simple. Give HIM your burden and trust in HIM because HE will NEVER betray you.
Godspeed,
DWach
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