Psalms 55:5

Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.

Fearfulness {H3374} and trembling {H7461} are come {H935}{H8799)} upon me, and horror {H6427} hath overwhelmed {H3680}{H8762)} me.

fear and trembling overwhelm me, horror covers me.

Fear and trembling grip me, and horror has overwhelmed me.

Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, And horror hath overwhelmed me.

Commentary

Psalms 55:5 KJV: "Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me."

Context

Psalm 55 is a psalm of lament by David, expressing deep distress, sorrow, and a sense of betrayal, likely from a close friend (possibly Ahithophel, though not explicitly named in the psalm). The psalmist is surrounded by enemies and feels immense pressure and danger. This verse specifically describes the physical and emotional impact of this crisis on him.

Key Themes

  • Intense Fear and Anxiety: The verse vividly portrays overwhelming fear and physical trembling.
  • Feeling Overwhelmed: The psalmist feels completely consumed by dread and horror, unable to cope with the situation on his own.
  • Human Vulnerability: It highlights the reality of human weakness and the profound impact of suffering, betrayal, and danger on one's emotional and physical state.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used convey a powerful sense of terror:

  • "Fearfulness" (pachaแธ) suggests a sudden terror or dread.
  • "Trembling" (ra'ฤƒแธรข) refers to physical shaking or quivering due to fear or distress.
  • "Horror" ('รชmรข) denotes a deep, terrifying dread.
  • "Overwhelmed" (kฤsรข) means to cover or clothe, illustrating how the horror completely envelops the psalmist.

Related Scriptures

This verse resonates with other biblical passages describing intense distress and the need for divine refuge. Compare David's cry here with his expressions of anguish in Psalm 6:3 or the deep waters of affliction described in Psalm 69:1. Even Jesus experienced profound distress in Matthew 26:37, showing that feeling overwhelmed is a relatable human experience.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that it is normal to feel fear, trembling, and horror when facing difficult, dangerous, or overwhelming circumstances. The psalmist's honest expression validates these feelings. It encourages believers to turn to God even in their deepest distress, acknowledging their vulnerability while seeking His strength and refuge, as David often did elsewhere in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 46:1).

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 119:120

    My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.

  • Job 21:6

    Even when I remember I am afraid, and trembling taketh hold on my flesh.

  • Job 6:4

    For the arrows of the Almighty [are] within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the terrors of God do set themselves in array against me.

  • Isaiah 21:4

    My heart panted, fearfulness affrighted me: the night of my pleasure hath he turned into fear unto me.

  • Job 23:15

    Therefore am I troubled at his presence: when I consider, I am afraid of him.

  • Job 23:16

    For God maketh my heart soft, and the Almighty troubleth me:

  • Psalms 61:2

    From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock [that] is higher than I.
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