Psalms 55:2

"For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A contemplation by David. Listen to my prayer, God. Don’t hide yourself from my supplication."

Key Reflection

David's opening invocation in Psalms 55:2 directs the song to be played on stringed instruments and acknowledges it as a contemplation by David himself. The phrase “Listen to my prayer, God. Don’t hide yourself from my supplication” would have resonated deeply with David’s original audience, who understood that prayer was a direct line to God, especially for a king like David, whose actions were often scrutinized and influenced by divine will. This plea for God's attention underscores the intimate relationship between David and his deity, highlighting the importance of prayer in times of distress.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Attend unto me, and hear me -This also is the language of earnest supplication, as if he was afraid that God would not regard his cry. These varied forms of speech show the intense earnestness of the psalmist, and his deep conviction that he must have help from God. I mourn -The word used here -רודrûd- means properly to wander about; to ramble - especially applied to animals that have broken loose; and then, to inquire after, to seek, as one does “by running up and down;” hence, to desire, to wish.

Related Verses

More from Psalms 55

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