King James Version

What Does Psalms 91:16 Mean?

Psalms 91:16 in the King James Version says “With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. long: Heb. length of days” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 91 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. long: Heb. length of days”

Psalms 91:16 · KJV

Salvation

Context

14

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16

With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. long: Heb. length of days

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
With long life will I satisfy him (אֹרֶךְ יָמִים אַשְׂבִּיעֵהוּ, orekh yamim asbi'ehu)—God promises not merely length of days, but satisfaction (sava', to be filled, satiated). The verb suggests complete fulfillment, not empty longevity. This echoes the Deuteronomic covenant blessing (Deut 30:20) where loving God equals 'length of days.'

And shew him my salvation (וְאַרְאֵהוּ בִּישׁוּעָתִי, v'ar'ehu bishu'ati)—The climax of Psalm 91's divine protection. The Hebrew yeshu'ah (salvation) shares the same root as Jesus' name (Yeshua). God doesn't merely grant deliverance—He reveals it, makes it visible. This promise finds ultimate fulfillment in Christ, whom Simeon called God's salvation 'prepared before all people' (Luke 2:30-31). The one who dwells in God's shadow (91:1) ends seeing God's saving work.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Psalm 91 is a wisdom psalm attributed to the Mosaic era by some Jewish traditions, though likely composed during the monarchy. Its promises of divine protection made it a 'soldier's psalm' in Israel's military life. Satan quoted verses 11-12 when tempting Christ (Matt 4:6), showing its messianic significance. Early Christians saw verse 16 as prophetic of Christ's resurrection—satisfied with 'long life' (eternal) and revealing salvation to humanity.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's promise to 'satisfy' with long life differ from simply living many years—what spiritual fullness might you be missing even in longevity?
  2. In what ways have you personally 'seen' God's salvation beyond mere deliverance from danger?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
אֹ֣רֶךְ1 of 5

“With long”

H753

length

יָ֭מִים2 of 5

“life”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

אַשְׂבִּיעֵ֑הוּ3 of 5

“will I satisfy”

H7646

to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

וְ֝אַרְאֵ֗הוּ4 of 5

“him and shew”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

בִּֽישׁוּעָתִֽי׃5 of 5

“him my salvation”

H3444

something saved, i.e., (abstractly) deliverance; hence, aid, victory, prosperity

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 91:16 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 91:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 3:2Proverbs 3:16Psalms 21:4Psalms 50:23Isaiah 65:20-22Job 5:26

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