Psalms 31:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Blessed be the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist blesses God for displaying His extraordinary kindness in a place of security and safety.
The Context of Psalms 31:21
The psalmist praises God for His kindness and protection, experienced in safety.
What Does Psalms 31:21 Mean?
The word 'blessed' (baruch) is an acclamation of praise and gratitude. The psalmist's shift to blessing indicates that the crisis is now being understood from the perspective of God's response. God has 'shewed'—made visible and evident—His marvellous kindness. This is not hidden grace but kindness demonstrated publicly and unmistakably. The psalmist has experienced God's extraordinary compassion in tangible ways.
A 'strong city' is a place fortified against attack, a refuge and safe place. The mention of it here suggests that the psalmist has experienced both the threat and the safety—he has been brought from danger into security. The marvellous kindness is displayed precisely in the context of vulnerability, making the contrast sharp and the blessing especially meaningful. God's protection is not abstract but real, removing the speaker from danger and establishing him in safety.
Psalms 31:21 in the Original Language
pele (פֶּלֶא), 'marvellous' — wonderful, extraordinary, or beyond normal capacity; often used for actions that evoke wonder and praise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 31:21
What does Psalms 31:21 mean?
The psalmist blesses God for displaying His extraordinary kindness in a place of security and safety.
What is the context of Psalms 31:21?
The psalmist praises God for His kindness and protection, experienced in safety.