Psalms 91:5

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day;

Thou shalt not be afraid {H3372}{H8799)} for the terror {H6343} by night {H3915}; nor for the arrow {H2671} that flieth {H5774}{H8799)} by day {H3119};

You will not fear the terrors of night or the arrow that flies by day,

You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day,

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night, Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

Commentary

Psalm 91:5 (KJV) offers a profound promise of divine protection and unwavering confidence to those who make God their refuge. This verse assures the believer that they will not be overcome by sudden, overwhelming dangers, whether they strike under the cover of night or in the clear light of day.

Context

This verse is an integral part of Psalm 91, a beloved psalm widely known for its powerful declarations of God's protection. The psalm begins by establishing the intimate relationship between the believer and God, emphasizing that those who "dwell in the secret place of the most High" and "abide under the shadow of the Almighty" are the recipients of these incredible promises. Verse 5 then specifies the nature of the threats from which God delivers, showcasing His comprehensive and vigilant care.

Key Themes

  • Divine Safeguard: The core message is God's active and unwavering protection. He is presented as a shield against both the anticipated and the unforeseen dangers of life.
  • Freedom from Fear: The emphatic declaration, "Thou shalt not be afraid," highlights that God's protection leads to inner peace and courage. This promise allows believers to face various forms of adversity without succumbing to paralyzing dread, echoing the broader biblical theme to "fear not."
  • Comprehensive Deliverance: The imagery of "terror by night" and "arrow that flieth by day" illustrates God's protection extending to all aspects of life. "Terror by night" can symbolize hidden or unseen dangers like nightmares, spiritual attacks, or sudden, unexpected calamities, while "arrow that flieth by day" represents overt, visible threats such as physical attacks, open conflict, or widespread pestilence (as implied in the following verses of the psalm).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "terror" in "terror by night" is pachad (פחד), which conveys a sense of sudden dread, alarm, or panic. This often refers to a fear that arises from unseen or impending danger. The "arrow" (Hebrew chets, חֵץ) is a common biblical metaphor for sudden calamity, judgment, or a swift, unexpected attack. Together, these terms vividly portray the full spectrum of potential dangers—from subtle, creeping anxieties to overt, striking assaults—from which God promises to deliver His faithful ones.

Practical Application

For modern believers, Psalm 91:5 remains a potent source of comfort and strength. In a world often marked by uncertainty, anxiety, and various forms of real or perceived threats, this verse encourages us to place our ultimate trust in God's sovereign care. It reminds us that our security is found in His presence, enabling us to face life's challenges with courage rather than succumbing to fear. This divine promise does not necessarily mean an absence of difficulties, but rather an assurance of God's steadfast presence and faithfulness through every trial, empowering us to live fearlessly under His protective wing.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 43:2 (24 votes)

    When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

  • Job 5:19 (22 votes)

    He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.

  • Job 5:27 (22 votes)

    Lo this, we have searched it, so it [is]; hear it, and know thou [it] for thy good.

  • Proverbs 3:23 (19 votes)

    Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

  • Proverbs 3:25 (19 votes)

    Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.

  • Psalms 3:5 (16 votes)

    I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.

  • Psalms 3:6 (16 votes)

    I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set [themselves] against me round about.