Blessed be the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.

PSALMS 31:21KJV
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Psalms 31:21 (KJV)

What does Psalms 31:21 mean?

Psalms 31:21 is a statement of praise from David, thanking the LORD for showing him extraordinary kindness and protection, which he describes as being like shelter in a fortified city. David is expressing gratitude for God’s remarkable help during a time of trouble.

David, the speaker, is reflecting on a moment when he felt surrounded by danger but experienced God’s faithful care. The phrase “marvellous kindness” highlights how unexpected and wonderful God’s help felt to him. The mention of a “strong city” paints a picture of safety and security, suggesting that God’s protection was as real and reassuring as being inside strong city walls.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 31:21

  • “Blessed” (בָּרוּךְ, barukh; H1288) is a word often used to praise or speak well of someone, here directed toward the LORD as an act of worship and gratitude.
  • “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH; H3068) is God’s personal name, emphasizing a close, covenant relationship.
  • “Marvellous” (פָּלָא, pala’; H6381) means something extraordinary or beyond the usual, underscoring that God’s kindness was not ordinary but truly astonishing.
  • “Kindness” (חֶסֶד, chesed; H2617) refers to loyal love or steadfast mercy, a deep and faithful commitment that goes beyond mere favor.
  • “Strong” (מָצוּד, matsud; H4692) describes something fortified or well-defended, helping the reader picture the sense of security David felt.
  • “City” (עִיר, ir; H5892) is a common word for a town or city, but here it is paired with “strong” to stress the idea of safety and refuge.

Why Psalms 31:21 matters

  • Psalms 31:21 clears up the idea that God’s help is only spiritual or abstract; David describes it as practical and as real as physical protection in a fortified city.
  • The verse highlights the personal nature of God’s kindness (chesed), showing that God’s care is not distant but deeply involved in the lives of those who trust Him.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage by showing a turning point from distress to praise, reminding readers that moments of fear can lead to deeper gratitude when deliverance comes.

Where else these words appear

“strong” Hebrew H4692 · used in 25 verses

  • Deuteronomy 20:19 When thou shalt besiege a city a long time, in making war against it to take it, thou shalt not destroy the trees thereof by forcing an axe against them: for thou mayest eat of them, and thou shalt not cut them down(for the tree of the field is man's life) to employ them in the siege:
  • 2 Chronicles 11:5 And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah.
  • Ezekiel 4:7 Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it.

“marvellous” Hebrew H6381 · used in 69 verses

  • Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
  • Job 5:9 Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:
  • Psalms 107:15 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!