Psalms 34:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 34:20 mean?

Psalms 34:20 says that God protects the righteous so completely that not even one of their bones will be broken. This verse uses the image of unbroken bones to show the thoroughness of God’s care and protection.

David is the speaker in Psalms 34, writing after being delivered from a dangerous situation. He is encouraging others who trust in God, describing how God watches over those who are faithful to Him. The verse uses physical safety—specifically, bones not being broken—as a way to express God’s detailed and personal protection in times of trouble.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 34:20

• "keepeth" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word means to guard, watch, or preserve. In this verse, it emphasizes that God is actively and attentively protecting every part of the righteous person.
• "bones" (עֶצֶם, etsem): The word for bones here refers to the literal bones of the body, a symbol of a person’s strength and well-being. The focus on bones highlights the completeness of God’s protection.
• "broken" (שָׁבַר, shavar): This word means to break or shatter. The verse assures that not even a single bone will be broken, underlining the idea of total safety.

Why Psalms 34:20 matters

• Psalms 34:20 clarifies that God’s protection is not just general but extends to every detail, using the image of bones as a symbol for the whole person.
• This verse is part of a larger passage where David describes God’s faithfulness in delivering those who trust Him, reinforcing the theme of God’s attentive care.
• The verse is sometimes linked to later biblical references, but in its original setting, it simply expresses David’s confidence in God’s ability to protect the faithful from harm.