King James Version

What Does Psalms 91:3 Mean?

Psalms 91:3 in the King James Version says “Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 91 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

Psalms 91:3 · KJV


Context

1

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. abide: Heb. lodge

2

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3

Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4

He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The promises continue: "Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence" (Hebrew ki hu yatzilkha mi-pach yaqush mid-dever havvot). Two threats: "snare of the fowler" (hidden traps) and "noisome pestilence" (deadly disease). The "fowler" hunts birds with traps—representing Satan's deceptions. "Pestilence" threatens physical life. God delivers from both spiritual and physical dangers. The assurance is grounded in dwelling with God (vv.1-2).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The "fowler's snare" appears throughout Psalms (124:7, 141:9) and Proverbs (6:5, 7:23) as metaphor for death's trap or enemy schemes. "Pestilence" plagued ancient world—disease without cure or prevention. These threats remain: spiritual deception and physical suffering. Jesus warned against the devil as deceiver (John 8:44). Revelation promises ultimate deliverance: no more death, disease, or deception (21:4, 22:15).

Reflection Questions

  1. What "snares" (deceptions, temptations) threaten your spiritual life?
  2. How does "dwelling" in God (vv.1-2) provide protection from both seen and unseen dangers?
  3. How does Christ's victory over Satan and death guarantee believers' ultimate deliverance from all threats?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
כִּ֤י1 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ה֣וּא2 of 7
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

יַ֭צִּֽילְךָ3 of 7

Surely he shall deliver

H5337

to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

מִפַּ֥ח4 of 7

thee from the snare

H6341

a (metallic) sheet (as pounded thin)

יָק֗וּשׁ5 of 7

of the fowler

H3353

properly, entangled, i.e., by implication (intransitively) a snare, or (transitive) a snarer

מִדֶּ֥בֶר6 of 7

pestilence

H1698

a pestilence

הַוּֽוֹת׃7 of 7

and from the noisome

H1942

by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin


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 91:3 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 91:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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