Psalm 121:6

The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

Study Bible

The sun
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the sun was often seen as a powerful force, both life-giving and potentially harmful. The Hebrew word for sun, "שֶׁמֶשׁ" (shemesh), is used here. In the Bible, the sun is a symbol of God's provision and order, as seen in Genesis 1:16 where God creates the sun to govern the day. The sun's regular rising and setting is a testament to God's faithfulness and the order He established in creation. In Psalm 121, the sun represents the potential dangers and trials of daily life, yet it also serves as a reminder of God's constant presence and protection.

will not harm you
The phrase speaks to God's protective nature. The Hebrew word for harm, "נָכָה" (nakah), can mean to strike or smite. This assurance is a promise that God will shield His people from the destructive forces that could otherwise overwhelm them. In a broader biblical context, this protection is not just physical but also spiritual, as God guards the hearts and minds of His followers. This promise is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 54:17, which assures that no weapon formed against God's people will prosper.

by day
This phrase emphasizes the continual nature of God's protection. The day, with its activities and potential hazards, is a time when one might be most vulnerable to external threats. The assurance that God protects "by day" is a reminder that His vigilance is unceasing. In the biblical narrative, daytime is often associated with work and activity, as seen in John 9:4, where Jesus speaks of doing the works of God while it is day. Thus, this protection extends to all aspects of daily life and endeavors.

nor the moon
The moon, "יָרֵחַ" (yareach) in Hebrew, governs the night and is often associated with the mysterious and unknown. In ancient times, the night was a time of fear and uncertainty, with dangers lurking in the darkness. The moon's mention here signifies that God's protection is not limited to the day but extends into the night. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's care, as seen in Psalm 139:12, where even the darkness is not dark to God.

by night
The night, with its inherent uncertainties and fears, is a time when one might feel most vulnerable. The assurance that God protects "by night" is a powerful reminder of His omnipresence and omnipotence. In biblical times, night was often associated with danger and evil, as seen in the parable of the wheat and tares in Matthew 13:25, where the enemy sows weeds at night. Yet, God's promise here is that His protection is as steadfast in the night as it is in the day, offering peace and security to His people at all times.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 121, traditionally attributed to King David, who expresses trust in God's protection.

2. Israel
The nation to whom the psalm is addressed, representing God's chosen people who look to Him for help.

3. Mountains
Mentioned earlier in the psalm, symbolizing challenges or places of divine encounter.

4. Sun and Moon
Celestial bodies representing the totality of time (day and night) and potential sources of harm or distress.

5. Pilgrimage
The context of the psalm, often associated with the journey to Jerusalem, symbolizing life's spiritual journey.

Teaching Points

God's Comprehensive Protection
The verse assures believers of God's protection at all times, both day and night. This reflects His omnipresence and omnipotence, providing comfort and security in every situation.

Symbolism of Sun and Moon
The sun and moon symbolize the entirety of life's circumstances. God's promise to shield us from harm during both day and night signifies His control over all aspects of our lives.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty over creation. Just as He controls the sun and moon, He governs the events of our lives, ensuring our well-being.

Spiritual Journey
The psalm can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual journey. As pilgrims face various trials, they are reminded of God's constant protection and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the assurance of God's protection from the sun and moon in Psalm 121:6 influence your daily trust in Him?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the sun and moon in this verse be applied to the challenges you face in life?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty over creation, as seen in Genesis 1:16, enhance your faith in His protection?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's protection in a situation that seemed overwhelming. How does this reinforce the message of Psalm 121:6?

5. How can the promise of protection in Psalm 121:6 encourage you in your spiritual journey, especially during times of uncertainty or fear?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:16
The creation of the sun and moon, establishing their role in marking time and seasons, and God's sovereignty over them.

Isaiah 49:10
A promise of protection from the sun, similar to the assurance in Psalm 121:6, highlighting God's care for His people.

Revelation 7:16
Echoes the promise of protection from the sun, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's care in eternity.

Psalm 91:5-6
Describes protection from dangers by day and night, reinforcing the theme of God's comprehensive protection.