Psalms 91:11
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מַ֭לְאָכָיו
For he shall give his angels
H4397
מַ֭לְאָכָיו
For he shall give his angels
Strong's:
H4397
Word #:
2 of 7
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
לִ֝שְׁמָרְךָ֗
over thee to keep
H8104
לִ֝שְׁמָרְךָ֗
over thee to keep
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
Cross References
Psalms 34:7The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.Hebrews 1:14Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?Proverbs 3:6In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.Matthew 4:6And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.Psalms 71:3Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.Isaiah 31:1Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!
Historical Context
This psalm of protection was traditionally associated with Moses, addressing Israel's confidence in God's shelter during wilderness wanderings and warfare. Ancient Israel understood angels as God's messengers and agents, frequently mentioned in deliverance narratives (2 Kings 6:17; Daniel 6:22).
Questions for Reflection
- How does awareness of angelic protection shape your confidence in God's care without leading to presumption?
- What does 'in thy ways' teach about the relationship between obedience and divine protection?
Analysis & Commentary
This promise of angelic protection reveals God's providential care through supernatural agents. The phrase 'give charge' (tsavah) indicates authoritative command, while 'keep thee' (shamar) means to guard, watch, or preserve. The scope 'in all thy ways' encompasses the believer's entire path, not just hazardous moments. Satan misapplied this verse by omitting 'in thy ways' when tempting Christ (Matthew 4:6), demonstrating that divine protection accompanies obedient walking, not presumptuous testing. Hebrews 1:14 affirms angels as 'ministering spirits' for believers.