Old Testament
Psalms 22:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Rescue my soul from the sword; save my precious life from the power of the dog.
Compare translations
Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog.
What Psalms 22:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is pleading for deliverance from danger and death. The 'sword' symbolizes lethal threats, while 'the power of the dog' represents fierce enemies or those who seek to harm him. The use of 'soul' and 'precious life' indicates the deep value of life and the urgency of the psalmist's request for protection. This cry for help reflects a profound sense of vulnerability and the need for divine intervention in times of distress. The imagery evokes a sense of being hunted or attacked, emphasizing the psalmist's desperation. This verse resonates with anyone who has faced overwhelming challenges or feels threatened, reminding them of the importance of seeking help from God in their struggles. It highlights the belief that God can rescue and save, even in the direst situations, reinforcing faith in His protective power.
How to apply Psalms 22:20 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges or threats, remember to seek God's help. Just as the psalmist cried out for rescue, we too can bring our fears and struggles to God, trusting in His ability to protect and deliver us from harm.
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 22:20
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 22:20
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 22:20 mean?
Psalms 22:20 expresses a plea for rescue from danger and death. The psalmist is asking God to save him from lethal threats and fierce enemies, highlighting a deep sense of vulnerability and the urgent need for divine protection.
What is the meaning of 'the power of the dog' in Psalms 22:20?
In Psalms 22:20, 'the power of the dog' symbolizes fierce enemies or those who seek to harm the psalmist. It conveys a sense of being hunted or attacked, emphasizing the danger he faces.
How can I apply Psalms 22:20 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 22:20 by seeking God's help when facing overwhelming challenges or threats. Just as the psalmist called out for rescue, you can bring your fears and struggles to God, trusting in His ability to protect you.
What themes are present in Psalms 22:20?
Psalms 22:20 includes themes of deliverance, protection, vulnerability, divine intervention, desperation, and faith. These themes highlight the importance of seeking God's help in difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.