Psalm 91 is one of the most beloved chapters in the Bible, celebrated for its themes of divine protection, comfort, and trust in God. Its history reflects its deep theological, literary, and spiritual significance over centuries.

Authorship and Context

The exact author of Psalm 91 is unknown. While many psalms are attributed to King David, this psalm lacks a direct attribution in the text. Some Jewish traditions suggest that it may have been written by Moses, linking it to the themes and language of Deuteronomy. This connection is partly due to its placement near Psalm 90, which is explicitly attributed to Moses. Others maintain it may have been written later during or after the reign of King David.

The psalm likely emerged during a time of national or personal distress, reflecting ancient Israelite reliance on God’s protection amid threats like war, illness, or natural disasters.

Themes and Structure

Psalm 91 is structured into three main parts:

1. Assurance of God’s Protection (Verses 1-4): It begins with an intimate depiction of God as a refuge and fortress, promising safety to those who dwell in His presence.
2. Promises of Deliverance (Verses 5-13): These verses describe the threats from which God protects the faithful, including plagues, terror, and enemies. The imagery is vivid, including references to angels guarding the faithful.
3. Divine Affirmation (Verses 14-16): The voice shifts to God, who personally affirms His protection, deliverance, and salvation for those who love Him.

Historical Usage

• In Jewish Tradition: Psalm 91 has been recited as a prayer for protection, especially during times of danger or illness. It is part of Jewish morning prayers and is traditionally recited before sleep to invoke divine protection during the night.
• In Christian Tradition: Christians have similarly valued Psalm 91 as a source of comfort and assurance. It has been used in liturgical prayers, personal devotion, and during times of crisis. During the Middle Ages, it was considered a protective text against plague and other dangers.
• In Modern Times: The psalm remains a cornerstone of both Jewish and Christian spirituality, often recited during times of fear or uncertainty, such as wars or pandemics.

Literary Significance

Psalm 91 is a masterpiece of Hebrew poetry, employing parallelism, vivid metaphors, and imagery. The “shelter of the Most High” and the image of God covering His people with His “wings” evoke a sense of divine intimacy and care.

Influence on Culture

The psalm has inspired countless works of art, music, and literature. It is quoted in the New Testament, where Satan uses verses 11-12 to tempt Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:6; Luke 4:10-11). Jesus’ response underscores the broader message of trust in God’s will rather than testing His protection.

In modern culture, Psalm 91 has been referenced in hymns, spiritual songs, and even in military contexts as a “Soldier’s Psalm” for its emphasis on God’s shield and protection.

Enduring Legacy

The universal appeal of Psalm 91 lies in its timeless message: God is a refuge in times of trouble, offering peace, safety, and reassurance to those who trust in Him.

¹ SAFE AND SECURE
¹ When you abide under the shadow of Shaddai,
you are hidden in the strength of God Most High.
² He’s the hope that holds me and the stronghold to shelter me,
the only God for me, and my great confidence.
³ He will rescue you from every hidden trap of the enemy,
and he will protect you from false accusation
and any deadly curse.
⁴ His massive arms are wrapped around you, protecting you.
You can run under his covering of majesty and hide.
His arms of faithfulness are a shield keeping you from harm.
⁵ You will never worry about an attack of demonic forces at night
nor have to fear a spirit of darkness coming against you.
⁶ Don’t fear a thing!
Whether by night or by day, demonic danger will not trouble you,
nor will the powers of evil launched against you.
⁷ Even in a time of disaster, with thousands and thousands being killed,
you will remain unscathed and unharmed.
⁸ You will be a spectator as the wicked perish in judgment,
for they will be paid back for what they have done!
^9-10 When we live our lives within the shadow of God Most High,
our secret hiding place, we will always be shielded from harm.
How then could evil prevail against us or disease infect us?
¹¹ God sends angels with special orders to protect you wherever you go,
defending you from all harm.
¹² If you walk into a trap, they’ll be there for you
and keep you from stumbling.
¹³ You’ll even walk unharmed among the fiercest powers of darkness,
trampling every one of them beneath your feet!
¹⁴ For here is what the Lord has spoken to me:
“Because you loved me, delighted in me, and have been loyal to my name,
I will greatly protect you.
¹⁵ I will answer your cry for help every time you pray,
and you will feel my presence
in your time of trouble.
I will deliver you and bring you honor.
¹⁶ I will satisfy you with a full life and with all that I do for you.
For you will enjoy the fullness of my salvation!”
Psalms 91 (TPT)