The sun will not strike you by day
This phrase reflects the protection God provides against the harshness of the sun, which in the ancient Near Eastern context, was a significant concern due to the intense heat and potential for sunstroke. The imagery of the sun striking is a metaphor for any form of harm or danger that might befall someone during the day. In biblical times, travelers and shepherds were particularly vulnerable to the sun's heat, making this promise of divine protection especially comforting. This assurance can be connected to the broader biblical theme of God as a shield and protector, as seen in passages like Psalm 91:1-6, where God is described as a refuge and fortress. The sun's symbolism also extends to God's provision and guidance, as seen in the pillar of fire and cloud that led the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 13:21).

nor the moon by night
The mention of the moon provides a parallel assurance of protection during the night. In ancient cultures, the moon was often associated with various superstitions and fears, including the belief in "lunacy" or madness caused by the moon. The promise here is that God will protect from any harm that might be associated with the night, whether physical, spiritual, or psychological. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's care, covering all times and circumstances. The night, often a time of vulnerability and fear, is transformed into a period of safety under God's watchful eye. This protection is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 91:5, which assures believers they will not fear the terror of night. Theologically, this can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the Light of the World (John 8:12), dispelling darkness and fear.

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.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.(6) Smite thee.--The mention of shade leads to the amplification of the figure. The evil effects of sunstroke are too well known to need comment. They are often mentioned in the Bible (2Kings 4:18; 2Kings 4:20; Jonah 4; Judith 8:3).

Nor the moon by night.--Possibly there is allusion to the belief, so common in old times, of the harmful influence of the moon's light--a belief still recalled in the word lunacy. It is a fact that temporary blindness is often caused by moonlight. (See authorities referred to by Ewald and Delitzsch.) Others, again, think that the injurious cold of the night is here placed in antithesis to the heat of the noonday sun (comp. Genesis 31:40; Jeremiah 36:30), the impression that intense cold burns being common in the East, as indeed everywhere. Tennyson speaks of the moon being "keen with frost." But it is also possible that the generally harmful effects of night air are intended. . . .

Verse 6. - The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. These were the chief dangers of travelers, whether pilgrims or others. Coup de soleil was feared by day, and the deleterious influence of the moon's rays by night. This last has sometimes been doubted, but the observation of modern travelers seems to show that bad effects actually fellow on sleeping in the moonlight in hot countries (see Curzon's 'Travels,' p. 36; Leopolt, 'India Missions,' p. 7).

Parallel Commentaries ...


The sun
הַשֶּׁ֥מֶשׁ (haš·še·meš)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 8121: The sun, the east, a ray, a notched battlement

will not
לֹֽא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

strike
יַכֶּ֗כָּה (yak·kek·kāh)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 5221: To strike

you by day
יוֹמָ֗ם (yō·w·mām)
Adverb
Strong's 3119: Daytime, by day

nor the moon
וְיָרֵ֥חַ (wə·yā·rê·aḥ)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3394: The moon

by night.
בַּלָּֽיְלָה׃ (bal·lā·yə·lāh)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3915: A twist, night, adversity


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OT Poetry: Psalm 121:6 The sun will not harm you (Psalm Ps Psa.)