The LORD will guard you from all evil;
This phrase emphasizes God's protective nature over His people. The term "guard" suggests a vigilant, watchful presence, akin to a shepherd watching over his flock. In the context of ancient Israel, this would resonate with the understanding of God as a divine protector against both physical and spiritual threats. The phrase "from all evil" encompasses a broad spectrum of dangers, including moral and spiritual corruption. This aligns with the biblical theme of God as a refuge and fortress, as seen in Psalm 91:2, where God is described as a shelter and stronghold. The assurance of divine protection is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms and is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to trust in God's safeguarding power (2 Thessalonians 3:3).

He will preserve your soul.
The preservation of the soul indicates a deeper, more eternal protection beyond physical safety. In biblical terms, the "soul" often refers to the entire being, encompassing both physical life and spiritual existence. This promise of preservation suggests that God's care extends into the eternal realm, ensuring the salvation and well-being of the believer's soul. This concept is reinforced in the New Testament, where Jesus speaks of eternal life and the security of the believer in passages like John 10:28, where He assures that no one can snatch His followers out of His hand. The idea of God preserving the soul also connects to the hope of resurrection and eternal life, a central tenet of Christian faith.

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

2. The Psalmist
Traditionally attributed to King David, though the specific author of Psalm 121 is not definitively known. The psalmist expresses trust in God's protection.

3. Israel
The nation to whom the psalmist originally writes, representing God's chosen people who look to Him for help and protection.

4. Pilgrims
This psalm is part of the "Songs of Ascents," sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem, symbolizing the journey of faith and reliance on God.

5. Jerusalem
The destination of the pilgrims, representing the presence of God and a place of worship and safety.God's Comprehensive Protection
God's protection is not limited to physical safety but extends to spiritual preservation. He guards us from all forms of evil, both seen and unseen.

The Assurance of God's Presence
The promise of God's protection is rooted in His constant presence. Believers can find peace in knowing that God is always with them, watching over their lives.

The Importance of Trust
Trusting in God's protection requires faith. Believers are called to rely on God's promises and His ability to guard their souls against evil.

Spiritual Preservation
The preservation of the soul is a reminder of the eternal security believers have in Christ. This assurance should lead to a life of confidence and peace.

Living in Light of God's Protection
Understanding God's protective nature should inspire believers to live boldly for Him, knowing that He is their ultimate safeguard.(7-8) Instead of preserve, read keep, the persistent dwelling on this one word making one of the chief beauties of this hymn.

Verse 7. - The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil; or, "keep thee." The same verb is used throughout. He shall preserve thy soul; or, keep thy soul.

Parallel Commentaries ...


The LORD
יְֽהוָ֗ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

will guard you
יִשְׁמָרְךָ֥ (yiš·mā·rə·ḵā)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 8104: To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to

from all
מִכָּל־ (mik·kāl)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

evil;
רָ֑ע (rā‘)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 7451: Bad, evil

He will preserve
יִ֝שְׁמֹ֗ר (yiš·mōr)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 8104: To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to

your soul.
נַפְשֶֽׁךָ׃ (nap̄·še·ḵā)
Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 5315: A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion


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OT Poetry: Psalm 121:7 Yahweh will keep you from all evil (Psalm Ps Psa.)