Psalms 121
AOSNPsalms 121:1-8
The leader of the group of pilgrims uses word pictures to assure the group of the Lord’s presence during the journey.
Psalms 121:1
The mountains were known for idol worship (Deuteronomy 12:2), and Israel was drawn to the hilltop shrines (Hosea 4:13). This verse can be seen as a rhetorical question expecting a "no" answer: The gods of the hilltop shrines cannot save anyone.
Others understand the mountains to be a symbol of the Lord’s strength (Psalm 95:4). In that case, the question would be taken literally (From where does my help come?), with the answer in the next verse.
Psalms 121:4-6
The Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:2) protects Israel.
God stands with Israel, offering support and care to the faithful (see Psalm 16:7–8).
Both the sun and the moon were worshiped as gods in the ancient Near East. But God limits their power. They are part of creation and also praise the Lord (Psalm 148:3).
Psalms 121:4
God watches over his own, even and especially when they face many troubles (Psalms 12:5, 7; 69:29; 91:14; 146:9).
Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.