Psalms 55:13

But [it was] thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.

But it was thou, a man {H582} mine equal {H6187}, my guide {H441}, and mine acquaintance {H3045}{H8794)}.

But it was you, a man of my own kind, my companion, whom I knew well.

But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend.

But it was thou, a man mine equal, My companion, and my familiar friend.

Context

Psalm 55 is a passionate lament of King David, expressing deep anguish and a desire for escape from his troubles. The preceding verse (Psalm 55:12) sets the stage by explicitly stating that the pain he feels is not from an enemy, but from someone he had considered a close ally. This verse, Psalms 55:13, then identifies the betrayer with stark clarity, amplifying the profound pain of betrayal by a trusted confidant. Historically, many scholars associate this psalm with David's flight during Absalom's rebellion, particularly the treachery of his esteemed counselor, Ahithophel.

Key Themes

  • Profound Betrayal: The core message is the devastating impact of treachery coming from an unexpected, trusted source. It highlights that betrayal from a friend can be far more painful than aggression from an open enemy.
  • Broken Trust: David's words underscore the violation of a deep, intimate relationship, where trust was fundamental. The very foundations of companionship are shattered.
  • Emotional Anguish: The verse captures the raw emotional distress and shock when someone considered "equal" and "acquainted" turns against you.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrases chosen here emphasize the closeness of the relationship:

  • "a man mine equal" (Hebrew: 'erki - עֶרְכִּי): This implies someone of David's own rank, a peer, or someone he held in high esteem. It speaks of a relationship built on mutual respect and standing.
  • "my guide" (Hebrew: 'alluphi - אַלּוּפִי): This term can mean "my companion," "my familiar friend," or even "my chief/leader." It suggests someone who walked alongside him, perhaps offering counsel, or with whom he shared intimate moments and decisions.
  • "and mine acquaintance" (Hebrew: u'meyudda'i - וּמְיֻדָּעִי): Literally "my known one" or "my intimate friend." This signifies deep personal knowledge, shared history, and a level of familiarity that makes the betrayal even more cutting. This wasn't a casual acquaintance but someone deeply integrated into David's life.

Related Scriptures

  • For further insight into the pain of betrayal by a friend, consider Jesus' words regarding Judas's betrayal, which echoes this ancient pain of a trusted companion turning against Him.
  • The concept of a true friend versus a treacherous one is also explored in Proverbs 18:24.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound insights for believers today:

  • Understanding Human Frailty: It acknowledges the painful reality that betrayal can come from those closest to us, reminding us of the fallen nature of humanity and the need for discernment.
  • Empathy for the Betrayed: It provides a biblical framework for understanding the deep emotional wounds caused by broken trust, offering solace to those who have experienced similar pain.
  • Reliance on God: Ultimately, David's lament in Psalm 55 leads him to cast his burden upon the Lord (Psalm 55:22). This serves as a powerful reminder that while human relationships can fail, God's faithfulness remains steadfast. When trust is broken by others, our ultimate trust must rest in Him.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Samuel 15:12

    And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from his city, [even] from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.

  • Micah 7:5

    Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.

  • Jeremiah 9:4

    Take ye heed every one of his neighbour, and trust ye not in any brother: for every brother will utterly supplant, and every neighbour will walk with slanders.

  • 2 Samuel 16:23

    And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, [was] as if a man had enquired at the oracle of God: so [was] all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.

  • Mark 14:44

    And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead [him] away safely.

  • Mark 14:45

    And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him.

  • Psalms 41:9

    Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up [his] heel against me.

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