Old Testament
Psalms 91:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You will tread upon the lion and the adder; the young lion and the dragon you will trample underfoot.
Compare translations
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
What Psalms 91:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses vivid imagery to convey the idea of overcoming powerful and dangerous adversaries. The lion and the adder symbolize fierce enemies and threats, while the young lion and dragon represent even greater challenges. The act of treading and trampling signifies victory and dominance over these dangers. In a spiritual sense, it reassures believers that with faith and divine protection, they can face and conquer life's fears and obstacles. The verse emphasizes God's promise of safety and strength for those who trust in Him, suggesting that no matter how formidable the challenges may seem, they can be overcome through faith and reliance on God's power.
How to apply Psalms 91:13 to your life
In daily life, this verse encourages us to confront our fears and challenges with confidence, knowing that we are not alone. By trusting in God's protection, we can face difficult situations, whether they are personal struggles or external threats, with courage and assurance of victory.
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 Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 91:13
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 91:13
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 91:13 mean?
Psalms 91:13 conveys the message of overcoming powerful adversaries, symbolized by the lion and adder. It reassures believers that with faith in God, they can conquer life's fears and challenges.
What is the meaning of 'tread upon the lion and the adder' in Psalms 91:13?
The phrase 'tread upon the lion and the adder' symbolizes triumph over fierce enemies and threats. It signifies that believers can achieve victory over dangers through faith and divine protection.
How can I apply Psalms 91:13 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 91:13 by facing your fears and challenges with confidence, trusting in God's protection. This verse encourages you to confront difficult situations with courage, knowing you have divine support.
What themes are present in Psalms 91:13?
Psalms 91:13 includes themes of divine protection, victory over evil, faith and trust, and overcoming challenges. It highlights the strength believers can find in adversity through reliance on God's promises.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.