King James Version
What Does Psalms 91:5 Mean?
“Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;”
Context
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;
6
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
7
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **Terror by night.**—Possibly a night attack by an enemy. (Comp. Song of Solomon 3:8; Proverbs 3:23-26.) Comp. Milton:
“To bless the doors from nightly harm.”
In this case the arrow flying by day would refer to dangers of actual battle. But it is quite possible that the latter may be merely the Oriental expression for the pestilence, since it is still so called by Arabians. “I desired to remove to a less contagious air. I received from Solyman the emperor this message: that the emperor wondered what I meant in desiring to remove my habitation. Is *not the pestilence God’s arrow, which will always hit his mark?*”—Quoted in Spurgeon’s *Treasury of David, *from Busbequin’s *Travels.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 91:5 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 91:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge