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Psalm 71:3 Be my rock of refuge, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.
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Give the order to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/71.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come; you have given the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/71.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be my rock of refuge, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/71.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou <i>art</i> my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/71.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Be my strong refuge, To which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me, For You <i>are</i> my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/71.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of dwelling to which I may continually come; You have given the commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/71.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come; You have given commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/71.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Be Thou to me a rock of habitation, to which I may continually come; Thou hast given commandment to save me, For Thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/71.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come; You have given the command to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/71.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of refuge <i>and</i> a sheltering stronghold to which I may continually come; You have given the commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/71.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be a rock of refuge for me, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for you are my rock and fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/71.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be a rock of refuge for me, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for You are my rock and fortress. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/71.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Be thou to me a rock of habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: Thou hast given commandment to save me; For thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/71.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Be my mighty rock, the place where I can always run for protection. Save me by your command! You are my mighty rock and my fortress. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/71.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Be thou to me a rock of habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/71.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Be a rock on which I may live, a place where I may always go. You gave the order to save me! Indeed, you are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/71.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Be my secure shelter and a strong fortress to protect me; you are my refuge and defense. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/71.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Be my sheltering refuge where I may go continuously; command my deliverance for you are my rock and fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/71.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be my rock of refuge, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/71.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Be my protector and refuge, a stronghold where I can be safe! For you are my high ridge and my stronghold. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/71.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of refuge to which I may always go. Give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/71.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Be thou my strong habitation, to which I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/71.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of refuge to which I may always go. Give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/71.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Be a rock to me—a habitation, "" To go in continually, "" You have given command to save me, "" For You [are] my rock and my bulwark.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/71.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Be to me for a rock -- a habitation, To go in continually, Thou hast given command to save me, For my rock and my bulwark art Thou.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/71.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Be thou to me for a rock of refuge to come always: thou didst command to save me, for thou my rock and my fortress.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/71.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Be thou unto me a God, a protector, and a place of strength: that thou mayst make me safe. For thou art my firmament and my refuge. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/71.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 70:3>Be a God of protection and a place of strength for me, so that you may accomplish my salvation. For you are my firmament and my refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/71.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Be my rock of refuge, my stronghold to give me safety; for you are my rock and fortress. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/71.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/71.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Be thou to me a sheltering rock whereunto I may continually resort; give thou commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/71.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Be my dwelling place that I may enter it always, and command to save me, because you are the house of my refuge and my fortress.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/71.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Be Thou to me a sheltering rock, whereunto I may continually resort, Which Thou hast appointed to save me; For Thou art my rock and my fortress.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/71.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Be to me a protecting God, and a strong hold to save me: for thou art my fortress and my refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/71-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=8457" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/psalms/71.htm">In You, O LORD, I Have Taken Refuge</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">2</span>In Your justice, rescue and deliver me; incline Your ear and save me. <span class="reftext">3</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: hĕ·yêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">Be</a> <a href="/hebrew/lî (Prep:: 1cs) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/6697.htm" title="6697: lə·ṣūr (Prep-l:: N-ms) -- Rock, cliff. Or tsur; from tsuwr; properly, a cliff; generally, a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge; also an edge.">my rock</a> <a href="/hebrew/4583.htm" title="4583: mā·‘ō·wn (N-ms) -- Dwelling, habitation. Or maiyn; from the same as ownah; an abode, of God, men or animals; hence, a retreat.">of refuge,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8548.htm" title="8548: tā·mîḏ (Adv) -- From an unused root meaning to stretch; properly, continuance; but used only constant; ellipt. The regular sacrifice.">where I can always</a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: lā·ḇō·w (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">go.</a> <a href="/hebrew/6680.htm" title="6680: ṣiw·wî·ṯā (V-Piel-Perf-2ms) -- To lay charge (upon), give charge (to), command, order. A primitive root; to constitute, enjoin.">Give the command</a> <a href="/hebrew/3467.htm" title="3467: lə·hō·wō·šî·‘ê·nî (Prep-l:: V-Hifil-Inf:: 1cs) -- To deliver. A primitive root; properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e. to be safe; causatively, to free or succor.">to save me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/859.htm" title="859: ’āt·tāh (Pro-2ms) -- You (masc. sing.). ">You</a> <a href="/hebrew/5553.htm" title="5553: sal·‘î (N-msc:: 1cs) -- A crag, cliff. From an unused root meaning to be lofty; a craggy rock, literally or figuratively.">are my rock</a> <a href="/hebrew/4686.htm" title="4686: ū·mə·ṣū·ḏā·ṯî (Conj-w:: N-fsc:: 1cs) -- A net, capture, a fastness. Or mtsuwdah; or mtsudah; for matsowd; a net, or capture; also a fastness.">and my fortress.</a> </span><span class="reftext">4</span>Deliver me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and ruthless.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a></span><br />The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/31-2.htm">Psalm 31:2-3</a></span><br />Incline Your ear to me; come quickly to my rescue. Be my rock of refuge, the stronghold of my deliverance. / For You are my rock and my fortress; lead me and guide me for the sake of Your name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/61-2.htm">Psalm 61:2-3</a></span><br />From the ends of the earth I call out to You whenever my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. / For You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/62-6.htm">Psalm 62:6-7</a></span><br />He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress; I will not be shaken. / My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/91-2.htm">Psalm 91:2</a></span><br />I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/144-2.htm">Psalm 144:2</a></span><br />He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer. He is my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/26-4.htm">Isaiah 26:4</a></span><br />Trust in the LORD forever, because GOD the LORD is the Rock eternal.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/32-2.htm">Isaiah 32:2</a></span><br />Each will be like a shelter from the wind, a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in a dry land, like the shadow of a great rock in an arid land.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/22-2.htm">2 Samuel 22:2-3</a></span><br />He said: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. / My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation. My stronghold, my refuge, and my Savior, You save me from violence.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/32-4.htm">Deuteronomy 32:4</a></span><br />He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/18-10.htm">Proverbs 18:10</a></span><br />The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-25</a></span><br />Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. / The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/16-18.htm">Matthew 16:18</a></span><br />And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/6-47.htm">Luke 6:47-48</a></span><br />I will show you what he is like who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them: / He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid his foundation on the rock. When the flood came, the torrent crashed against that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/10-28.htm">John 10:28-29</a></span><br />I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. / My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Be you my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: you have given commandment to save me; for you are my rock and my fortress.</p><p class="hdg">my strong habitation [heb.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/31-2.htm">Psalm 31:2,3</a></b></br> Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/91-1.htm">Psalm 91:1,2</a></b></br> He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/18-10.htm">Proverbs 18:10</a></b></br> The name of the LORD <i>is</i> a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.</p><p class="hdg">thou hast</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/44-4.htm">Psalm 44:4</a></b></br> Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for Jacob.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/68-28.htm">Psalm 68:28</a></b></br> Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/91-11.htm">Psalm 91:11,12</a></b></br> For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways… </p><p class="hdg">my rock</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a></b></br> The LORD <i>is</i> my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, <i>and</i> my high tower.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/144-2.htm">Psalm 144:2</a></b></br> My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and <i>he</i> in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/70-4.htm">Always</a> <a href="/psalms/61-5.htm">Appointed</a> <a href="/psalms/48-13.htm">Bulwark</a> <a href="/psalms/68-11.htm">Command</a> <a href="/psalms/19-8.htm">Commandment</a> <a href="/psalms/70-4.htm">Continually</a> <a href="/psalms/62-6.htm">Fortress</a> <a href="/psalms/69-25.htm">Habitation</a> <a href="/psalms/71-1.htm">Refuge</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-20.htm">Resort</a> <a href="/psalms/62-7.htm">Rock</a> <a href="/psalms/71-2.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/psalms/70-4.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/psalms/71-2.htm">Save</a> <a href="/psalms/69-12.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/esther/10-2.htm">Whereunto</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/71-6.htm">Always</a> <a href="/psalms/75-2.htm">Appointed</a> <a href="/psalms/91-2.htm">Bulwark</a> <a href="/psalms/78-23.htm">Command</a> <a href="/psalms/119-96.htm">Commandment</a> <a href="/psalms/71-6.htm">Continually</a> <a href="/psalms/91-2.htm">Fortress</a> <a href="/psalms/74-7.htm">Habitation</a> <a href="/psalms/71-7.htm">Refuge</a> <a href="/isaiah/11-10.htm">Resort</a> <a href="/psalms/73-26.htm">Rock</a> <a href="/psalms/80-3.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/psalms/71-15.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/psalms/72-4.htm">Save</a> <a href="/psalms/71-7.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/jeremiah/22-27.htm">Whereunto</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 71</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/71-1.htm">David, in confidence of faith, and experience of God's favor, prays both for himself, </a></span><br><span class="reftext">10. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/71-10.htm">and against the enemies of his soul</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/71-14.htm">He promises constancy</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/71-17.htm">He prays for perseverance</a></span><br><span class="reftext">19. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/71-19.htm">He praises God, and promises to do it cheerfully</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-ATF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-300x250-ATF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-BTF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-300x250-BTF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-BTF2 --> <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/71.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/psalms/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/psalms/71.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Be my rock of refuge</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the psalmist's desire for God to be a stable and secure place of safety. The imagery of God as a "rock" is prevalent throughout the Psalms and other biblical texts, symbolizing strength, permanence, and protection. In ancient Near Eastern culture, rocks and mountains were often seen as places of refuge and safety from enemies. This metaphor also points to God's unchanging nature and reliability, as seen in <a href="/deuteronomy/32-4.htm">Deuteronomy 32:4</a>, where God is described as "the Rock, His work is perfect."<p><b>where I can always go</b><br>The psalmist expresses a need for constant access to God's protection. This reflects the understanding that God's presence is not limited by time or circumstance. In the historical context, cities of refuge in Israel provided a place where individuals could flee for safety, as described in <a href="/numbers/35.htm">Numbers 35</a>. Spiritually, this phrase underscores the believer's ability to approach God at any time, as affirmed in <a href="/hebrews/4-16.htm">Hebrews 4:16</a>, which encourages believers to "approach the throne of grace with confidence."<p><b>Give the command to save me</b><br>Here, the psalmist appeals to God's authority and power to deliver. The request for God to "give the command" highlights the belief in God's sovereign control over all situations. This reflects the biblical theme of God as a deliverer, as seen in <a href="/exodus/14-13.htm">Exodus 14:13-14</a>, where God commands the Israelites to stand firm and witness His salvation. The psalmist's plea is rooted in faith that God can and will act decisively to rescue.<p><b>for You are my rock and my fortress</b><br>Reiterating the imagery of God as a "rock," the psalmist also describes God as a "fortress," further emphasizing protection and defense. Fortresses in biblical times were strongholds that provided security against enemies. This dual imagery reinforces the idea of God as both a personal protector and a mighty defender. The concept of God as a fortress is echoed in <a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a>, where David declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer." This typology points to Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate refuge and salvation for believers, fulfilling the role of protector and savior.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_psalmist.htm">The Psalmist</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed to David, the psalmist is seeking refuge and strength in God, expressing a deep personal relationship with Him.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_a_rock_and_fortress.htm">God as a Rock and Fortress</a></b><br>God is depicted as a place of safety and protection, emphasizing His reliability and strength.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_act_of_salvation.htm">The Act of Salvation</a></b><br>The psalmist acknowledges God's command to save, highlighting divine intervention and deliverance.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_our_constant_refuge.htm">God as Our Constant Refuge</a></b><br>Just as the psalmist seeks God as a dwelling place, we are encouraged to continually seek refuge in Him amidst life's challenges.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_command_to_save.htm">The Command to Save</a></b><br>God's command to save is a reminder of His sovereign power and willingness to deliver us from our troubles.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_symbolism_of_the_rock.htm">The Symbolism of the Rock</a></b><br>The imagery of God as a rock signifies His unchanging nature and reliability, encouraging us to build our lives on His steadfastness.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/continual_coming_to_god.htm">Continual Coming to God</a></b><br>The psalmist's desire to continually come to God highlights the importance of a persistent and ongoing relationship with Him.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_protection.htm">Trust in God's Protection</a></b><br>Recognizing God as a fortress assures us of His protection and encourages us to trust Him in times of fear and uncertainty.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_71.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 71</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_is_injustice_present_in_psalm_62.htm">In Psalm 62, why is there still rampant injustice (verses 3, 9-10) if God truly is the believer's secure refuge?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_are_the_ten_days_of_tribulation.htm">What does 'The Lord is My Rock' mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_faith_proof_of_unseen_things.htm">Who will guide me to the higher rock?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_seek_divine_aid_if_devout_suffer.htm">Why appeal to divine protection in Psalm 61 if many devout figures throughout history still suffered or were defeated?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/71.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) <span class= "bld">Rock.</span>--Better, <span class= "ital">cliff </span>(Hebrew <span class= "ital">selah</span>)<span class= "ital">, </span>to distinguish it from <span class= "ital">ts-r, </span>above.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/71.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 3.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Be thou my strong Habitation;</span> literally, <span class="accented">be thou to me for a Rock of habitation</span>; <span class="accented">i.e.</span> a rock upon which I may take up my abode. <span class="cmt_word">Whereunto I may continually resort.</span> Exegetical of the preceding clause, <span class="accented">habitation"</span> <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>Thou hast given "a rock of commandment to save me.</span> It is in thy counsels that I am to be helped and saved - not left to the will of my enemies (comp. <a href="/psalms/68-28.htm">Psalm 68:28</a>). This conviction lies at the root of the psalmist's faith and trust. <span class="cmt_word">For thou art my Rock and my Fortress</span> (comp. <a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a>; <a href="/psalms/61-2.htm">Psalm 61:2, 3</a>, etc.). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/71-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Be</span><br /><span class="heb">הֱיֵ֤ה</span> <span class="translit">(hĕ·yêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fall out, come to pass, become, be</span><br /><br /><span class="word">my rock</span><br /><span class="heb">לְצ֥וּר</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ṣūr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6697.htm">Strong's 6697: </a> </span><span class="str2">A cliff, a rock, boulder, a refuge, an edge</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of refuge,</span><br /><span class="heb">מָע֡וֹן</span> <span class="translit">(mā·‘ō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4583.htm">Strong's 4583: </a> </span><span class="str2">An abode, of God, men, animals, a retreat</span><br /><br /><span class="word">where I can always</span><br /><span class="heb">תָּמִ֗יד</span> <span class="translit">(tā·mîḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8548.htm">Strong's 8548: </a> </span><span class="str2">Continuance, constant, ellipt, the regular, sacrifice</span><br /><br /><span class="word">go.</span><br /><span class="heb">לָב֗וֹא</span> <span class="translit">(lā·ḇō·w)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> </span><span class="str2">To come in, come, go in, go</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Give the command</span><br /><span class="heb">צִוִּ֥יתָ</span> <span class="translit">(ṣiw·wî·ṯā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Piel - Perfect - second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6680.htm">Strong's 6680: </a> </span><span class="str2">To lay charge (upon), give charge (to), command, order</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to save me,</span><br /><span class="heb">לְהוֹשִׁיעֵ֑נִי</span> <span class="translit">(lə·hō·wō·šî·‘ê·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3467.htm">Strong's 3467: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be open, wide, free, to be safe, to free, succor</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּֽי־</span> <span class="translit">(kî-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">You</span><br /><span class="heb">אָֽתָּה׃</span> <span class="translit">(’āt·tāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Pronoun - second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_859.htm">Strong's 859: </a> </span><span class="str2">Thou and thee, ye and you</span><br /><br /><span class="word">are my rock</span><br /><span class="heb">סַלְעִ֖י</span> <span class="translit">(sal·‘î)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5553.htm">Strong's 5553: </a> </span><span class="str2">A craggy rock</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and my fortress.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּמְצוּדָתִ֣י</span> <span class="translit">(ū·mə·ṣū·ḏā·ṯî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4686.htm">Strong's 4686: </a> </span><span class="str2">A net, capture, a fastness</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/71-3.htm">Psalm 71:3 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/71-3.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 71:3 Be to me a rock of refuge (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/71-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 71:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 71:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/71-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 71:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 71:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>