Psalm 121 Study Notes

Ps 121 title On ascents, see note at Ps 120 title.

121:1-8 In this psalm the writer exploited the broad semantic range of the Hebrew verb shamar (“guard, keep, protect, observe”) using the term six times (vv. 3,4,5,7[2x],8). The CSB consistently translates it as “protect” or “Protector” in this psalm.

121:1 The mountains may have seemed like a potential place to hide (11:1), a symbol of God’s stability and deliverance (31:2; 125:2; Nah 1:15), or a looming menace (Jnh 2:6). Any of these could prompt the question concerning the source of help.

121:2 The Creator is the faithful source of help and blessing (124:8; 134:3; 146:6).

121:5-8 God protects his people from the perils of the road by day or by night.