Psalms 55:21 web — His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.

World English Bible

"His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords."

— Psalms 55:21, World English Bible

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Psalms 55:21 in Other Translations

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Psalms 55 — Context

18

He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me, although there are many who oppose me.

19

God, who is enthroned forever, will hear, and answer them. Selah. They never change, who don't fear God.

20

He raises his hands against his friends. He has violated his covenant.

21

His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.

22

Cast your burden on Yahweh, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the righteous to be moved.

23

But you, God, will bring them down into the pit of destruction. Bloodthirsty and deceitful men shall not live out half their days, but I will trust in you. For the Chief Musician. To the tune of "Silent Dove in Distant Lands." A poem by David, when the Philistines seized him in Gath.

Psalms 55:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Psalms 55:21 say?
Psalms 55:21 in the World English Bible reads: “His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.”
Where is Psalms 55:21 in the Bible?
Psalms 55:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Psalms, chapter 55, verse 21.
Who wrote Psalms?
Psalms is traditionally attributed to Multiple authors (David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses, others). Approximately 73 psalms are attributed to David; others to Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses, Heman, and Ethan; the remainder are anonymous. It was written c. 1410–430 BC.
What is the book of Psalms about?
The Psalms are the prayer book and hymnal of God's people, gathering a thousand years of inspired song — praise, lament, thanksgiving, confession, and royal and messianic worship. Every emotion of the believing heart finds a voice here, and every voice finds its center in Christ.
What are the major themes of Psalms?
Psalms explores themes including Praise, Lament, Trust, Messiah, Refuge, Kingship. These themes shape the meaning and context of Psalms 55:21.
What translation should I read Psalms 55:21 in?
Psalms 55:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Psalms 55:21?
Psalms 55:21 reads (WEB): “His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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