Old Testament
Psalms 121:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
Compare translations
The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
What Psalms 121:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Psalms 121 assures believers of God's protection at all times. The imagery of the sun and moon represents the dangers that can come from nature, whether it be the scorching heat of the day or the uncertainties of the night. The sun can cause physical harm through heat, while the moon symbolizes the fears and anxieties that can arise in darkness. The psalmist emphasizes that God is a constant guardian, shielding us from harm regardless of the time of day. This promise of divine protection encourages trust in God's care, reminding us that He watches over us continuously, day and night. It reassures us that we are not alone in facing life's challenges, as God is always present to provide safety and comfort. This verse invites us to rely on God's strength and presence, knowing that He is our protector against both physical and emotional threats.
How to apply Psalms 121:6 to your life
In our daily lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God protects us from harm. This assurance encourages us to face challenges without fear, trusting that God is with us in every situation. We can also extend this protection to others by offering support and encouragement, reminding them of God's care.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 121:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 121:6
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 121:6 mean?
Psalms 121:6 conveys God's promise of protection from harm at all times, symbolized by the sun and moon. It reassures believers that they are safeguarded from both physical dangers during the day and emotional fears at night.
What is the meaning of 'the sun will not strike you by day' in Psalms 121:6?
The phrase 'the sun will not strike you by day' signifies protection from the harshness of the sun's heat, representing physical dangers that can arise during the day.
What is the significance of 'nor the moon by night' in Psalms 121:6?
'Nor the moon by night' symbolizes the fears and uncertainties that can come with darkness. It highlights God's protection against emotional and spiritual anxieties that may arise during nighttime.
How does Psalms 121:6 relate to daily life?
Psalms 121:6 encourages individuals to trust in God's constant protection, helping them face daily challenges without fear. It serves as a reminder that God is always present, providing safety and comfort.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.