“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”
Psalm 91:4 KJV
“He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.”
Psalm 91:4 NASB
COVER / sakak / overshadow, screen, cover
Webster’s 1828: “To hide; to conceal by something overspread.”
WINGS / kanaph / wing, edge, extremity, corner
Bible Hub: “ In ancient Hebrew culture, the concept of ‘kanaph’ was rich with symbolism. Wings were often associated with protection and refuge, as birds shelter their young under their wings.”
to take REFUGE / chasah / to trust, to seek shelter
Bible Hub: “The Hebrew verb “chasah” primarily means to seek refuge or to trust in something or someone for protection. It conveys a sense of seeking safety and security, often in the context of trusting in God as a refuge.”
FAITHFULNESS / emeth / truth, reliability, firmness, stability, certainty, trustworthiness
Bible Hub: “The Hebrew word “emeth” primarily conveys the concept of truth in the sense of reliability and faithfulness. It is used to describe the nature of God, His words, and His actions, emphasizing His trustworthiness and the certainty of His promises.”
BUCKLER / sohera / shield
Webster’s 1828: “A kind of shield, or piece of defensive armor, anciently used in war. It was composed of wood, or wickers woven together, covered with skin or leather, fortified with plates of brass or other metal, and worn on the left arm. On the middle was an umbo, boss or prominence, very useful in causing stones and darts to glance off. The buckler often was four feet long, and covered the whole body.”
Psalm 91:4 in the New International Version reads “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”
According to Webster’s 1828, a rampart is “In fortification, an elevation or mound of earth round a place, capable of resisting cannon shot, That which fortifies and defends from assault; that which secures safety.”
Bible Hub clarifies things a bit more for us. “The terms ‘shield’ and ‘rampart’ convey strong military imagery, suggesting defense and protection against enemies. In the historical context of ancient Israel, shields were essential for soldiers, and ramparts were defensive walls around cities.”
You may have experienced getting caught in an unexpected rain storm and in need of shelter. When you find shelter, you trust that the shelter will be a refuge for you and will protect you until the storm passes.
What beautiful imagery God has used in this scripture. As a young bird trusts his mother to protect him from unknown dangers, so are we protected in Christ. His faithfulness is a shield and a defensive wall. His character, goodness, and very nature protect us from disaster.
Thank you Jesus!
