2 Samuel 22:3

The God of my rock; in him will I trust: [he is] my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence.

The God {H430} of my rock {H6697}; in him will I trust {H2620}: he is my shield {H4043}, and the horn {H7161} of my salvation {H3468}, my high tower {H4869}, and my refuge {H4498}, my saviour {H3467}; thou savest {H3467} me from violence {H2555}.

the God who is my Rock, in whom I find shelter, my shield, the power that saves me, my stronghold and my refuge. My savior, you have saved me from violence.

My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation. My stronghold, my refuge, and my Savior, You save me from violence.

God, my rock, in him will I take refuge; My shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge; My saviour, thou savest me from violence.

Commentary

2 Samuel 22:3 is a powerful declaration of King David's unwavering trust in God, expressed as part of his song of deliverance recorded in 2 Samuel chapter 22. This poetic verse beautifully illustrates the multifaceted nature of God as a protector and savior.

Context

This verse is drawn from a thanksgiving psalm sung by King David to the Lord "on the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul" (2 Samuel 22:1). It serves as a parallel account to Psalm 18, highlighting David's reflection on God's consistent faithfulness throughout his tumultuous life, from fleeing King Saul to conquering various adversaries. It is a testament to God's active involvement in David's survival and triumphs, particularly from the threat of violence.

Key Themes and Messages

  • God as Supreme Protector: David uses a series of vivid metaphors to describe God's protective attributes: "my rock," "my shield," "my high tower," "my refuge." These images convey stability, defense, elevated safety, and a secure haven from danger.
  • Unwavering Trust: The phrase "in him will I trust" underscores the core message of faith. Despite facing immense violence and threats, David's confidence remains solely in God.
  • Divine Salvation: God is explicitly called "the horn of my salvation" and "my saviour," emphasizing His active role in delivering David. The concluding "thou savest me from violence" directly attributes his deliverance from physical harm to God's intervention.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "rock" (Hebrew: Tsur or Sela) is a common biblical metaphor for God, signifying His unchangeable nature, strength, and reliability as a foundation. It suggests an unshakeable fortress where one can find security, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:4.
  • "The horn of my salvation" is a powerful image. In ancient cultures, the horn symbolized strength, power, and dignity (e.g., the strength of an ox). To have one's horn "exalted" meant triumph and victory. Thus, God is the source of David's triumphant deliverance and strength.
  • "High tower" (Hebrew: Misgav) refers to a stronghold or a high, inaccessible place of refuge, signifying a place where enemies cannot reach.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that no matter the dangers or "violence" we face—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—God remains our ultimate source of security and deliverance. Like David, we are called to place our complete trust in Him, understanding that He is our personal "rock," "shield," and "saviour." This passage encourages us to cultivate a personal relationship of reliance and praise for His constant protection, knowing that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 9:9 (14 votes)

    The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.

  • Isaiah 12:2 (10 votes)

    Behold, God [is] my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH [is] my strength and [my] song; he also is become my salvation.

  • Proverbs 18:10 (8 votes)

    ¶ The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

  • Deuteronomy 33:29 (7 votes)

    Happy [art] thou, O Israel: who [is] like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who [is] the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.

  • Proverbs 30:5 (7 votes)

    Every word of God [is] pure: he [is] a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

  • Psalms 46:11 (7 votes)

    The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

  • Psalms 115:9 (7 votes)

    ¶ O Israel, trust thou in the LORD: he [is] their help and their shield.