55:6 55:6

Psalms 55:7

55:8 55:8

Bible Versions

Lo, [then] would I wander far off, [and] remain in the wilderness. Selah.
Lo, then would I wander {H5074}{H8800)} far off {H7368}{H8686)}, and remain {H3885}{H8799)} in the wilderness {H4057}. Selah {H5542}.
Yes, I would flee to a place far off, I would stay in the desert. (Selah)
How far away I would flee! In the wilderness I would remain. Selah
Lo, then would I wander far off, I would lodge in the wilderness. [Selah

Psalms 55:7 captures a profound moment of despair and longing for escape experienced by the psalmist, often attributed to King David. Overwhelmed by betrayal and distress, he expresses a desperate wish to flee from his tormentors and find solace in isolation. This verse resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt the crushing weight of circumstances and yearned for a place of refuge.

Context

Psalm 55 is a lament, likely written by David during a time of intense personal suffering, possibly related to Absalom's rebellion or Ahithophel's betrayal, as hinted by the presence of a "friend" who has turned against him (Psalms 55:12-14). The preceding verses vividly describe his anguish: "My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me" (Psalms 55:4). This verse, "Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness," is a direct continuation of his wish from the previous verse: "Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest" (Psalms 55:6). The desire to "remain in the wilderness" signifies a yearning for complete solitude and distance from the turmoil of city life and treacherous relationships.

Key Themes

  • Desire for Escape and Refuge: The primary theme is the overwhelming human need to flee from unbearable pain, conflict, or betrayal. The psalmist fantasizes about a physical escape to a place where he can find peace and rest.
  • The Weight of Distress: This verse underscores the severe emotional and spiritual burden that leads one to such a desperate longing for solitude. It speaks to the intensity of feelings like fear, sorrow, and anxiety.
  • Solitude as a Sanctuary: For the psalmist, the wilderness, though often a place of desolation, represents a potential sanctuary from his enemies and the chaos of his life. It symbolizes a longing for peace and quiet away from the source of his pain.

Linguistic Insights

The word "wilderness" in Hebrew is midbar (מִדְבָּר). While it literally refers to a desert or uncultivated land, it often carries connotations beyond mere geography in biblical texts. It can be a place of testing, spiritual encounter, or, as here, a place of refuge and solitude. The psalmist's wish to "remain" (Hebrew: shakan, שָׁכַן, meaning to dwell or settle) in the wilderness emphasizes a deep yearning for a lasting state of peace and detachment from his troubles, rather than just a temporary visit. The interjection "Lo," or "Behold," highlights the earnestness and immediate nature of this desperate wish.

Practical Application

Psalms 55:7 offers a profound validation of human emotion. It acknowledges that when faced with overwhelming stress, betrayal, or conflict, it is natural to feel a strong desire to escape. While physical flight may not always be possible or the ultimate solution, this verse teaches several lessons:

  • Acknowledge Your Feelings: It's okay to feel overwhelmed and desire a break from life's pressures. The psalmist's raw honesty gives permission for us to acknowledge our own feelings of despair or exhaustion.
  • Seek God's Refuge: While the psalmist longs for a physical wilderness, true and lasting refuge is ultimately found in God. Like David, who often cried out to God for deliverance (e.g., Psalms 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble"), we are reminded to turn to Him for peace amidst turmoil.
  • The Need for Solitude: Sometimes, temporary solitude or withdrawing from the source of distress is necessary for emotional and spiritual regrouping. Even Jesus sought quiet places for prayer and reflection. However, this should lead to renewed strength to face challenges, not permanent isolation.

This verse reminds us that even the greatest figures of faith experienced profound human weakness and a desperate need for peace, ultimately finding it in the unwavering presence of 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.

  • Jeremiah 9:2

    Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they [be] all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.

  • Jeremiah 37:12

    Then Jeremiah went forth out of Jerusalem to go into the land of Benjamin, to separate himself thence in the midst of the people.

  • 2 Samuel 17:21

    And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.

  • 2 Samuel 17:22

    ¶ Then David arose, and all the people that [were] with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan.

  • Proverbs 6:4

    Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.

  • Proverbs 6:5

    Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand [of the hunter], and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.

  • 2 Samuel 15:14

    And David said unto all his servants that [were] with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not [else] escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.
 Back

Search Scripture