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Dhammapada · narration sample

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The Bible · 481 of 1189

Psalms 3

1.LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.

2.Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.

3.But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

4.I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.

5.I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.

6.I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.

7.Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.

8.Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

Asked of Guide

Why does the psalmist say he could 'lay down and sleep' despite many enemies?

The psalmist describes enemies surrounding him and people saying “There is no help for him in God,” then names God as “a shield,” his “glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” That assurance of God’s protection is the stated cause for his calm: he cries to the LORD, is heard, and therefore rests in trust.

This language of being heard on “his holy hill” and of God sustaining him explains the sleep — confidence that divine protection is active. Psalm 23 makes the same move, portraying God’s presence as the reason a person can lie down and not fear.

Guide is the guide inside the Gnosis app, where every book on these shelves is free to read. Guide is the part you pay for — your guide has read all of them, and answers about the passage you’re actually on. Ask your guide your own question.