1. Psalm 55:1–23 (ESV)
  2. Structure and outline

Introduction to Psalm 55

Psalm 55:1–23 (ESV)

1 Give ear to my prayer, O God, and hide not yourself from my plea for mercy!

Many questions can be posed about dating this psalm. This Psalm has no information about that. Reading Psalm 55:13–14 can make one think of a specific event (see the notes on those verses).

As emotions often play a role in the Psalms, we are regularly confronted with certain comments, shouts, or sighs. Just as in life, a Psalm is an expression of struggle, fear, thankfulness, and much more. This is a Psalm from the life of someone who struggles/is being oppressed.

  • The author is being oppressed and is fearful (Psalm 55:1–9)

  • The hostility and the misdeeds (Psalm 55:10–15)

  • The friend who became the enemy (Psalm 55:20–21)

  • Trust in God (Psalm 55:16–19, Psalm 55:22–23)