Old Testament
Psalms 55:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Look, then I would wander far off and stay in the wilderness.' Selah.
Compare translations
Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah.
What Psalms 55:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses a deep desire to escape from their troubles and pain. The imagery of wandering far off and staying in the wilderness suggests a longing for solitude and peace away from the chaos of life. The wilderness symbolizes a place of refuge, where one can be free from the burdens and conflicts that weigh heavily on the heart. The use of 'Selah' indicates a pause for reflection, inviting the reader to consider the weight of the speaker's feelings. This verse captures the universal human experience of wanting to flee from distressing situations, highlighting the need for rest and healing in times of turmoil. It resonates with anyone who has felt overwhelmed and sought a place of safety and quiet to regroup and find clarity. Ultimately, it reflects a yearning for a simpler, more peaceful existence, away from the complexities and challenges of life.
How to apply Psalms 55:7 to your life
When feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, consider taking time for yourself in a quiet place. This could mean going for a walk in nature, meditating, or simply finding a moment of stillness. Allow yourself to reflect and recharge, just as the psalmist expresses a desire to escape to the wilderness for peace.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 55:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 55:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 55:7 mean in simple terms?
Psalms 55:7 expresses a deep desire to escape from life's troubles. The speaker wishes to wander far away and find solitude in the wilderness, symbolizing a need for peace and refuge from chaos. This verse reflects the universal feeling of wanting to flee from distressing situations and highlights the importance of finding a quiet place to regroup and heal.
How can I apply the message of Psalms 55:7 in my life?
To apply the message of Psalms 55:7, take time for yourself when feeling overwhelmed. Seek out a quiet place, whether it's a park, a nature trail, or a peaceful room at home. Use this time for reflection, meditation, or simply to enjoy the silence. This practice can help you recharge and gain clarity, just as the psalmist longs for peace away from life's chaos.
What does 'Selah' mean in Psalms 55:7?
The term 'Selah' in Psalms 55:7 is often understood as a pause for reflection. It invites readers to stop and consider the weight of the speaker's feelings and the significance of the desire for solitude and peace. This moment of contemplation encourages deeper understanding and connection with the emotions expressed in the verse.
Why does the psalmist want to escape to the wilderness?
The psalmist wants to escape to the wilderness as a metaphor for seeking solitude and peace away from life's burdens. The wilderness represents a place free from conflict and chaos, where one can find rest and healing. This desire reflects a common human experience of wanting to retreat and regroup during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.