Psalm 55:20-21
“He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. 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.”
King James Version
The betrayer's deceptive smooth words masking treachery, fulfilled in Judas's hypocritical kiss of greeting in Gethsemane.
Fulfillment References
Matthew 26:48-49 Psalm 41:9 Luke 22:47-48
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalThe psalm of betrayal by a trusted friend — 'the words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart' — fulfilled in Judas's kiss (Matt. 26:48-49; cf. Ps. 41:9). The Lord Jesus, God in flesh, endured the betrayal of a familiar friend; He who knew the heart was wounded in the house of His friends, bearing it for our redemption.
JewishThe lament of one betrayed by a close companion whose smooth words masked treachery; David's anguish at a friend's covenant-breaking.
CatholicRead of the betrayal of Christ by Judas, the false friend — a Passion psalm of treachery.
ProtestantA type of Christ's betrayal — the familiar friend turned traitor (cf. Ps. 41:9; John 13:18), fulfilled in Judas.
AcademicAn individual lament over a betraying confidant; Christian tradition applies it (with Ps. 41:9) to Judas.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.