Old Testament
Psalms 35:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Draw out the spear and block the way against those who persecute me. Say to my soul, 'I am your salvation.'
Compare translations
Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.
What Psalms 35:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is asking God to take action against those who are pursuing him with harmful intentions. The imagery of drawing out a spear suggests readiness for battle and defense. The psalmist seeks divine intervention to protect him from his enemies. Additionally, the phrase 'Say to my soul, I am your salvation' emphasizes the reassurance and comfort that God provides. It reflects a deep trust in God's ability to save and deliver from danger. The psalmist is not only seeking physical protection but also spiritual assurance, reminding himself that God is his ultimate source of safety and salvation. This verse encapsulates a plea for help while affirming faith in God's protective nature, highlighting the relationship between the believer and God as a source of strength and refuge.
How to apply Psalms 35:3 to your life
When facing challenges or persecution, we can turn to God for protection and guidance. This verse encourages us to trust in God's ability to save us from difficult situations. We should remind ourselves of His promises and seek His strength in times of trouble, knowing He is our refuge.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 35:3
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 35:3
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 35:3 mean?
Psalms 35:3 expresses a plea for God's intervention against those who are causing harm. The psalmist asks God to prepare for battle and protect him from his enemies, while also affirming that God is his source of salvation.
What is the meaning of 'I am your salvation' in Psalms 35:3?
The phrase 'I am your salvation' in Psalms 35:3 signifies God's promise to protect and deliver the psalmist from danger. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the comfort that comes from trusting in Him.
How can I apply Psalms 35:3 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 35:3 by turning to God in times of trouble and trusting Him for protection and guidance. Remind yourself of His promises and seek His strength when facing challenges or opposition.
What themes are present in Psalms 35:3?
Psalms 35:3 includes themes of divine protection, faith in God, deliverance from enemies, spiritual reassurance, and trust in salvation. These themes emphasize the relationship between the believer and God as a source of strength.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.