55:5 55:5

Psalms 55:6

55:7 55:7

Bible Versions

And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! [for then] would I fly away, and be at rest.
And I said {H559}{H8799)}, Oh that {H5414}{H8799)} I had wings {H83} like a dove {H3123}! for then would I fly away {H5774}{H8799)}, and be at rest {H7931}{H8799)}.
I said, "I wish I had wings like a dove! Then I could fly away and be at rest.
I said, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and find rest.
And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! Then would I fly away, and be at rest.

Psalm 55:6 captures a poignant moment of profound distress and longing for escape experienced by the psalmist, traditionally identified as David. In this verse, he cries out, "And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! [for then] would I fly away, and be at rest." This vivid imagery expresses a deep human desire for peace and refuge amidst overwhelming turmoil.

Context

This verse is found within Psalm 55, a lament psalm that powerfully conveys the psalmist's anguish over betrayal and oppression. David is surrounded by enemies, experiencing violence and deceit in the city, and, most painfully, suffering the treachery of a close companion. This betrayal weighs heavily on him, as described in Psalm 55:12-14, leading to a desperate wish to flee from the unbearable pain and conflict.

Key Themes

  • Desire for Escape and Refuge: The primary sentiment is an overwhelming urge to flee from a situation that has become too painful and dangerous to bear. The thought of having wings like a dove symbolizes a swift, unhindered escape from current suffering.
  • Longing for Peace and Rest: The phrase "and be at rest" highlights a deep yearning for tranquility and cessation from turmoil. It's not just an escape from danger but a desire for true inner peace and security.
  • Profound Distress and Betrayal: The intensity of David's cry underscores the depth of his suffering, particularly the emotional wounds inflicted by a trusted friend.
  • Human Vulnerability: This verse reveals a raw, honest expression of human frailty and the limits of endurance when faced with relentless adversity and personal heartbreak.

Linguistic Insights

The imagery of "wings like a dove" is significant. The Hebrew word for dove, yonah (יוֹנָה), often symbolizes innocence and gentleness, but also swift flight and sometimes sorrowful cooing. Here, it emphasizes a longing for a quick, pure escape from the polluted and violent environment. The phrase "be at rest" comes from the Hebrew word shakan (שָׁכַן), which means to dwell, settle, or abide. It implies a desire for a secure, permanent dwelling place of peace, not merely a temporary break from trouble. It's a yearning for a place where one can truly settle down and find solace.

Practical Application and Reflection

Psalm 55:6 resonates deeply with anyone who has faced overwhelming circumstances, betrayal, or intense stress, longing for a way out. While we cannot literally fly away from our troubles, this verse reminds us:

  • It's Okay to Feel: It validates the human desire for escape and rest when life becomes too heavy. David's honest lament gives us permission to acknowledge our own pain.
  • Finding True Refuge: The ultimate rest and refuge are found not in physical flight, but in God's presence. Just as David later turned to God for deliverance (Psalm 55:16-18), we are invited to cast our burdens upon the Lord. Consider Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
  • God's Sovereignty: Even when we feel trapped, God is omnipresent, and there is no place we can flee from His Spirit (Psalm 139:7-10). This truth, rather than being confining, becomes a source of comfort, knowing that God is always with us, even in our deepest distress, offering an eternal spiritual rest for His people.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that while the desire for escape is natural, true peace and security are ultimately found in surrendering our anxieties to God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 11:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David. In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee [as] a bird to your mountain?

  • Psalms 139:9

    [If] I take the wings of the morning, [and] dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;

  • Revelation 12:14

    And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.
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