Meaning of Psalms 34:20

This verse from Psalm 34:20, "He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken," is a profound declaration of divine safeguarding, often understood in a twofold manner: as a general promise of God's protection for the righteous and, more specifically and prophetically, as a reference to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The psalmist, David, likely penned this psalm during a time of personal distress and deliverance, reflecting on God's faithfulness in preserving him through peril. The imagery of bones, the very framework of the body, signifies the entirety of a person's being – their physical integrity, their life, and their very essence. The assertion that "not one of them will be broken" emphasizes the completeness and inviolability of this divine protection, suggesting an absolute preservation that transcends mere survival to encompass wholeness.

Context and Background

Psalm 34 is a psalm of thanksgiving and trust, attributed to David when he feigned madness before Achish, king of Gath, and was subsequently delivered. This experience of profound danger and miraculous escape deeply informed David's understanding of God's protective power. Within this psalm, David extols the Lord for delivering him from all his fears and troubles. Verse 20, therefore, stands as a climactic assurance of God's ultimate care for those who fear Him and take refuge in Him, stemming from a personal testimony of God's intervention.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Protection: The primary theme is God's unwavering commitment to protect His faithful followers. This protection is not superficial but extends to the very core of their being, symbolized by their bones.
• The Integrity of the Righteous: The verse speaks to the preservation of those who walk uprightly. God's care ensures their complete well-being, even amidst adversity.
• Messianic Prophecy: Christian theology widely interprets this verse as a prophetic allusion to Jesus Christ. The Gospels record that during Jesus' crucifixion, the Roman soldiers, following common practice, broke the legs of those crucified alongside Him to hasten death. However, they found Jesus already dead and, therefore, did not break His legs, fulfilling this very prophecy (John 19:31-37). This highlights Jesus' unique suffering and divine preservation even in death.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Psalm 34:20 offers immense comfort and assurance. It reminds us that God's care is comprehensive and that He watches over us even in our most vulnerable moments. This promise encourages steadfast faith, knowing that God's protective hand is upon us. It inspires trust, particularly when facing trials, sickness, or threats to our physical or spiritual well-being. The fulfillment of this verse in the life of Jesus further solidifies its significance, demonstrating God's sovereign plan and His ultimate victory over death and suffering.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse fits within the overarching biblical narrative of God's covenantal faithfulness and His redemptive plan for humanity. From the protection of Noah and his family, to the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, to the promised Messiah who would overcome sin and death, God consistently demonstrates His power to preserve and save His people. Psalm 34:20 anticipates the ultimate deliverance found in Christ, who, by not having His bones broken, symbolically passed through the ultimate trial of death and emerged victorious, paving the way for the spiritual preservation and resurrection of all who believe in Him.

Analogies

• The Architect's Blueprint: Just as an architect's detailed blueprint ensures the structural integrity of a building, ensuring every beam and support is perfectly placed and uncompromised, so too does God's divine plan encompass the complete preservation of the righteous.
• The Shepherd's Watch: A vigilant shepherd guards his flock with utmost care, ensuring no single sheep is lost or harmed. Similarly, God, the Good Shepherd, watches over His flock, safeguarding their entirety.
• The Unbroken Chain: Imagine a precious chain forged with links representing each bone of the body. The promise is that this chain, divinely secured, will remain unbroken, signifying perfect preservation.

Relation to Other Verses

Psalm 34:20 resonates with numerous other biblical passages:

• Psalm 91:10-11: "No harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways." This psalm echoes the theme of comprehensive divine protection.
• Proverbs 3:25-26: "Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that wicked people bring, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared." This offers a similar assurance of security for the faithful.
• John 19:31-37: As mentioned, this passage in the Gospel of John directly links the non-breaking of Jesus' bones to the fulfillment of this prophetic psalm, underscoring its Messianic significance.
• 1 Corinthians 1:8: "He who will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ." This New Testament verse speaks to God's power to preserve believers until the end.