King James Version

What Does Psalms 55:21 Mean?

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.”

Context

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

He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. broken: Heb. profaned

The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. burden: or, gift

But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee. bloody: Heb. men of bloods and deceit shall: Heb. shall not half their days

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **The words of his mouth.**—The ancient versions and the grammatical anomalies point to a corruption of the text. Read, *Smoother than butter is his face. *The reading *face *for *mouth *is suggested by the LXX., though their version has wandered far from the text even thus amended. **Drawn swords.**—The comparison of the tongue to a sword is frequent; that of the words themselves not so usual, but apt. We may compare Shakespeare’s “I will speak daggers to her, but use none.”—*Hamlet.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 55:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.