King James Version

What Does Psalms 119:114 Mean?

Psalms 119:114 in the King James Version says “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 119 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.”

Psalms 119:114 · KJV

Hope

Context

112

I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end. to perform: Heb. to do

113

SAMECH. I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.

114

Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

115

Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.

116

Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Thou art my hiding place and my shield (סִתְרִי וּמָגִנִּי אָתָּה, sitri umaginni attah)—two military metaphors for divine protection. Seter (hiding place, shelter, secret place) suggests refuge from danger; magen (shield) suggests active defense in battle. David used identical language: The LORD is my rock, and my fortress (2 Sam 22:2-3). These are not abstract theological concepts but testimonies forged in actual persecution.

I hope in thy word (לִדְבָרְךָ יִחָלְתִּי, lidvarкha yichalti)—the verb yachal means to wait expectantly, trust with anticipation. Hope is anchored not in circumstances but in God's revealed promises. This verse links divine protection with word-centered faith. We find refuge in God by trusting His written promises. The Reformers' sola scriptura finds expression here—Scripture alone is our ultimate hiding place and shield against error, doubt, and attack.

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Historical & Cultural Context

David's fugitive years in caves and wilderness strongholds (1 Sam 22-24) give these metaphors visceral meaning. For later Israel facing exile or persecution, God's word became the only reliable fortress when physical sanctuaries were destroyed. This theology sustained Jews through diaspora and persecution.

Reflection Questions

  1. When do you most naturally run to God as your hiding place—and when do you seek other refuges?
  2. How does hoping in God's word function as a shield against spiritual attacks and doubts?
  3. What promises in Scripture serve as your primary hiding place during trials?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
סִתְרִ֣י1 of 5

“Thou art my hiding place”

H5643

a cover (in a good or a bad, a literal or a figurative sense)

וּמָגִנִּ֣י2 of 5

“and my shield”

H4043

a shield (i.e., the small one or buckler); figuratively, a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile

אָ֑תָּה3 of 5
H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

לִדְבָרְךָ֥4 of 5

“in thy word”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יִחָֽלְתִּי׃5 of 5

“I hope”

H3176

to wait; by implication, to be patient, hope

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 119:114 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 119:114 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 91:1-2Psalms 32:7Psalms 3:3Isaiah 32:2Psalms 130:5-6Psalms 119:81

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