Psalm 91:13 marks a thematic transition in the psalm by expanding on the authority and victory granted to the one who abides in God’s protection. This verse goes beyond deliverance from danger and introduces the concept of overcomingthreats—symbolically represented as dangerous and powerful animals.
It conveys not only safety but dominion, suggesting that the believer is empowered to conquer spiritual and physical adversaries.
The King James Version (KJV) renders this verse as: “Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.”
This powerful imagery has fascinated theologians, artists, and readers for centuries and is rich in metaphor and prophetic insight.
Psalm 91:13 – The Original Hebrew Text and Syntax
In the original Hebrew, the verse reads:
עַל־שַׁחַל וָפֶתֶן תִּדְרֹךְ תִּרְמֹס כְּפִיר וְתַנִּין
Transliteration: ‘Al-shaḥal va-pheten tidrokh, tirmos kefir ve-tannin
The verse begins with עַל־שַׁחַל (al-shaḥal), which translates as “upon the lion.” The word שַׁחַל (shaḥal) refers to a fierce, mature lion—a symbol of danger, strength, and predatory threat. Following that is וָפֶתֶן (va-pheten), meaning “and the adder” or “cobra.” The פֶתֶן (pheten) is a venomous serpent and commonly represents deception, evil, or hidden spiritual danger. The verb תִּדְרֹךְ (tidrokh) comes from the root darakh (דרך), meaning “to tread, step on, or walk upon.” It implies a deliberate act of authority, not accidental contact.
The second clause intensifies the image with תִּרְמֹס (tirmos), from rāmas (רמס), meaning “to trample, crush, or subdue underfoot.” The objects of this verb are כְּפִיר (kefir)—“young lion,” and תַנִּין (tannin)—a word with layered meaning. Tannin is sometimes translated as “serpent,” “sea monster,” or “dragon,” depending on context. In other biblical passages (e.g., Isaiah 27:1; Ezekiel 29:3), tannin is used to depict chaotic evil, demonic forces, or powerful enemies of God. Thus, the entire verse symbolically represents the complete dominion the faithful have over every form of threat—whether natural, demonic, or symbolic of spiritual enemies.
Syntactically, Psalm 91:13 uses parallelism and intensification, a common feature in Hebrew poetry. The two lines mirror each other, with the second intensifying the imagery of the first. The first pair—lion and adder—suggests immediate and visible dangers. The second pair—young lion and dragon—intensifies the threat level, with the young lion symbolizing unrestrained strength and the dragon symbolizing mystery, ancient evil, or overwhelming chaos. The verbs “tread” and “trample” both denote active victory, not just survival or avoidance of harm. The subject (“you”) remains implied in the Hebrew, maintaining consistency with the second-person address throughout the psalm.
Psalm 91:13 – Commentary, Meaning and Theological Interpretation
Commentary and theological interpretations view this verse as both literal and metaphorical. In Jewish tradition, the verse has been seen as a promise of protection and victory over all enemies, both human and spiritual. The lion and the serpent represent dangers from both above and below, while the tannin, often associated with Leviathan or sea monsters, symbolizes cosmic evil that only God can subdue—thus affirming God’s authority extended to His people.
In Christian theology, Psalm 91:13 is frequently interpreted messianically. Many theologians view this verse as prophetic of Jesus Christ’s victory over Satan and demonic powers. The imagery of the serpent connects directly to Genesis 3:15, where the seed of the woman is promised to crush the serpent’s head. The New Testament affirms this idea in Romans 16:20, where Paul writes, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” Additionally, Luke 10:19 echoes the same authority when Jesus tells His disciples: “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” Thus, this verse is often viewed as a symbolic representation of spiritual authority granted to believers through Christ.
Psalm 91:13 – Alternative Views and Scholarly Debate
Alternative views suggest that Psalm 91:13 should not be taken as a literal promise that the faithful will always be free from harm. Rather, the language is poetic and symbolic, reflecting victory in spiritual battles, moral trials, and even psychological threats. The lion can represent overwhelming pressure or fear; the serpent can symbolize subtle deception or temptation. According to this view, Psalm 91:13 is a call to spiritual vigilance and confidence, reminding the faithful that no threat—visible or invisible—is greater than the presence of God in their lives.
Psalm 91:13 – Application for Today
Application for today is both empowering and humbling. This verse reminds believers that their walk with God is not passive but active. They are not merely shielded from harm—they are given authority to overcome it. Whether facing real enemies, destructive habits, false teaching, or spiritual attack, Psalm 91:13 reassures that through faith, believers can walk victoriously. It also invites a bold, yet humble lifestyle—one that leans not on human strength but on the spiritual authority granted through relationship with God.
This verse challenges the faithful to trust God fully even when confronting intense trials. It offers hope for those who feel surrounded by powerful opposition. Rather than living in fear of danger, deceit, or demonic attack, believers are called to walk forward with assurance, knowing they are empowered to tread upon every threat with divine backing.
Psalm 91:13 Conclusion
Psalm 91:13 is a compelling affirmation of God-given authority and protection. Through rich poetic language and layered Hebrew symbolism, it declares that those who dwell in the presence of the Most High will not only be safe but will walk in triumph over fearsome enemies. Whether interpreted literally, symbolically, or prophetically, the message is the same: those who trust in God are empowered to overcome the fiercest dangers—spiritually, emotionally, and physically—through His strength and sovereignty.
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