A song of ascents.
This phrase indicates that Psalm 121 is part of a collection known as the "Songs of Ascents," which includes Psalms 120-134. These psalms were traditionally sung by Hebrew pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the three major feasts: Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. The term "ascents" reflects both the physical journey upwards to the elevated city of Jerusalem and a spiritual ascent towards God. The pilgrimage was not only a physical journey but also a time of spiritual reflection and renewal.

I lift up my eyes to the hills.
The hills mentioned here likely refer to the mountainous region surrounding Jerusalem. For the ancient Israelites, these hills were a symbol of strength and stability. Geographically, Jerusalem is situated on a series of hills, and travelers would see these as they approached the city. In a broader spiritual sense, lifting one's eyes to the hills can symbolize looking beyond the immediate circumstances to seek divine assistance. The hills could also represent the high places where people often sought divine encounters, though the psalmist's focus is on the true source of help.

From where does my help come?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the psalmist's reliance on God rather than on the physical hills or any earthly source. It reflects a moment of introspection and acknowledgment of human limitations. The question sets the stage for the affirmation of faith that follows in the subsequent verses, where the psalmist declares that help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. This echoes other biblical passages that emphasize God's sovereignty and providence, such as Isaiah 40:28-31 and Psalm 46:1. The question also invites readers to consider their own sources of help and to place their trust in God alone.

My help comes from the LORD
This phrase emphasizes reliance on God as the ultimate source of assistance and strength. In the context of ancient Israel, the LORD (Yahweh) was recognized as the covenant God who delivered His people from Egypt and guided them through the wilderness. This acknowledgment of divine help reflects a deep trust in God's providence and protection, as seen throughout the Psalms. The LORD is often depicted as a shepherd, protector, and deliverer, reinforcing the idea that true help comes from Him alone. This reliance is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 46:1, which describes God as "our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

the Maker of heaven and earth
This phrase underscores God's sovereignty and creative power, affirming His authority over all creation. By identifying God as the Maker, the psalmist highlights His omnipotence and the assurance that comes from trusting in the Creator of the universe. This concept is foundational in the biblical narrative, beginning with Genesis 1:1, where God is introduced as the Creator. The phrase also connects to the New Testament, where Jesus Christ is identified as the agent of creation (John 1:3, Colossians 1:16), reinforcing the belief in His divine nature and role in the Godhead. The acknowledgment of God as the Maker serves as a reminder of His ability to sustain and uphold His creation, providing comfort and confidence to believers.

He will not allow your foot to slip;
This phrase emphasizes God's protective nature, ensuring stability and security for His people. In biblical times, walking on uneven and rocky terrain was common, and slipping could lead to injury or danger. This imagery reassures believers of God's constant vigilance and support. The metaphor of the foot not slipping is also found in Proverbs 3:23, which speaks of walking securely when one follows God's wisdom. This assurance is a reminder of God's covenant faithfulness, as seen in His promises to Israel throughout the Old Testament. The idea of God preventing a fall can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the cornerstone and foundation of faith, ensuring believers do not stumble spiritually.

your Protector will not slumber.
This phrase highlights God's perpetual vigilance and care. Unlike human protectors who need rest, God is ever-watchful. In the ancient Near Eastern context, many believed their gods could be inattentive or asleep, as seen in the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:27. In contrast, the God of Israel is always alert and attentive to the needs of His people. This assurance is echoed in Psalm 121:4, which states that the Keeper of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. The concept of God as a protector is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, pointing to His role as a shepherd, as seen in Psalm 23, and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), always watching over His flock.

Behold
This word serves as a call to attention, emphasizing the importance of what follows. In biblical literature, "behold" often introduces a significant truth or revelation. It invites the reader to pause and consider the weight of the statement, underscoring the reliability and faithfulness of God.

the Protector of Israel
The term "Protector" refers to God as the guardian and keeper of Israel. Throughout the Old Testament, God is depicted as a shepherd who watches over His flock, providing safety and guidance. This imagery is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to be their God and they His people. The title "Protector" also connects to the role of God as a divine warrior, defending Israel against its enemies, as seen in numerous battles and deliverances recorded in the historical books.

will neither slumber
The assurance that God does not slumber highlights His constant vigilance. Unlike human protectors who require rest, God is eternally awake and aware. This phrase contrasts the limitations of human guardianship with the divine attribute of omnipresence. In the ancient Near Eastern context, where people often believed that gods could be inattentive or asleep, this statement affirms the unique nature of Israel's God.

nor sleep
Reiterating the previous point, this phrase emphasizes God's perpetual watchfulness. The repetition serves to strengthen the assurance of God's unwavering attention to His people. In a broader biblical context, this characteristic of God is echoed in passages like Isaiah 40:28, which speaks of God as one who does not grow tired or weary. This assurance is a source of comfort and security for believers, knowing that God is always attentive to their needs and circumstances.

The LORD is your keeper;
This phrase emphasizes God's role as a protector and guardian. In the context of ancient Israel, a "keeper" was someone who watched over and protected valuable possessions, such as a shepherd with his sheep. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages, such as Psalm 23, where God is depicted as a shepherd. The term "keeper" also suggests a personal and attentive care, indicating that God is actively involved in the lives of His people. This aligns with the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where He promises to be their God and protector. The idea of God as a keeper is further reinforced in the New Testament, where Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), highlighting His protective and sacrificial role for His followers.

the LORD is the shade on your right hand.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, shade was a vital necessity in the harsh desert climate, providing relief and protection from the sun's intense heat. The mention of the "right hand" signifies a position of strength and honor, as the right hand was often associated with power and authority. This phrase suggests that God provides protection and support in the most critical areas of life. The imagery of shade also evokes the idea of God's presence being a refuge and a source of comfort, similar to how a tree provides shade and rest. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 25:4, where God is described as a refuge from the storm and a shade from the heat. The protective nature of God as shade can also be seen as a type of Christ, who offers spiritual rest and protection to believers, as seen in Matthew 11:28-30.

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.

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.

The LORD will watch over your coming and going
This phrase emphasizes God's continual protection and care over every aspect of life. In biblical times, travel was often perilous due to the threat of bandits, wild animals, and harsh weather conditions. The assurance of divine protection would have been a great comfort to the Israelites. This concept of God watching over His people is echoed in other scriptures, such as Deuteronomy 31:6, where God promises never to leave nor forsake His people. The imagery of "coming and going" suggests the totality of life's journey, encompassing all daily activities and movements.

both now and forevermore
This part of the verse highlights the eternal nature of God's guardianship. It reassures believers that God's protection is not limited by time; it is both immediate and everlasting. This promise of perpetual care is consistent with God's unchanging nature, as seen in Malachi 3:6, where God declares, "I the LORD do not change." The phrase also points to the eternal security found in a relationship with God, a theme that is further developed in the New Testament, particularly in John 10:28-29, where Jesus speaks of giving eternal life to His followers, ensuring that no one can snatch them out of His hand.