Psalm 121:4

Translations

Modern

Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

Traditional

Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

Literal

Behold, He does not slumber, and He does not sleep—the One guarding Israel.

Latin

Ecce non dormitabit neque dormiet qui custodit Israël.

Original

Hebrew

English

Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

Notes

Psalms 121:4

God watches over his own, even and especially when they face many troubles (Psalms 12:5, 7; 69:29; 91:14; 146:9).

Psalms 121:4–6

The Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:2) protects Israel.
God stands with Israel, offering support and care to the faithful (see Psalm 16:7–8).
Both the sun and the moon were worshiped as gods in the ancient Near East. But God limits their power. They are part of creation and also praise the Lord (Psalm 148:3).

Psalms 121:1–8

The leader of the group of pilgrims uses word pictures to assure the group of the Lord’s presence during the journey.

Psalms 120:1–134:3

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

Theme notes and profiles

Salvation in the Psalms Spirit Empowerment

Related verses

Psalm 127:1
A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain.
Isaiah 27:3
I, the LORD, am its keeper; I water it continually. I guard it night and day so no one can disturb it;
Psalm 32:7–8
You are my hiding place. You protect me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah
1 Kings 18:27
At noon Elijah began to taunt them, saying, “Shout louder, for he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or occupied, or on a journey. Perhaps he is sleeping and must be awakened!”
Ecclesiastes 8:16
When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the task that one performs on the earth—though his eyes do not see sleep in the day or even in the night—
Psalm 27:1
Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?
Revelation 7:15
For this reason, they are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple; and the One seated on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them.

People

Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Degrees, Song of Hallel Music Psalms, Book of Song of Ascents Song of Ascents, Song of Degrees

Topics

Anthropomorphisms: Miscellaneous Figures Eye: Anthropomorphic Uses of God: Faithfulness of God: Knowledge of God: Preserver Privileges of Saints: Having God for Their: Keeper Righteous: Promises To, Expressed or Implied Salvation: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Jews: Under God's Special Protection The Providence of God is Ever Watchful

Psalm 121:4

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