King James Version
What Does Psalms 55:18 Mean?
“He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.”
Psalms 55:18 · KJV
Context
16
As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.
17
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
18
He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.
19
God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God. Because: or, With whom also there be no changes, yet they
20
He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. broken: Heb. profaned
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe Hebrew 'padah' (redeemed) is covenant language, used of Israel's exodus deliverance and anticipating Christ's redemption. God delivers 'in peace' even amid battle, revealing that true shalom is spiritual—right standing with God—not merely circumstances. 'Many were with me' may reference angelic armies (2 Kings 6:16-17) or God's providential orchestration of human allies.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
David's deliverance often involved miraculous provision of loyal followers during Absalom's rebellion. The phrase recalls God's promise to fight for Israel and defeat enemies more numerous than His people (Deuteronomy 20:1-4).
Reflection Questions
- How does understanding redemption as God's act rather than human effort shape your prayers?
- What does 'peace' mean when external circumstances remain turbulent?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 9 wordsבְשָׁל֣וֹם2 of 9
“in peace”
H7965safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
נַ֭פְשִׁי3 of 9
“my soul”
H5315properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
לִ֑י5 of 9
H0כִּֽי6 of 9
H3588(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בְ֝רַבִּ֗ים7 of 9
“that was against me for there were many”
H7227abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
הָי֥וּ8 of 9
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 55:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 55:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge