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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 16:1 Preserve me, O God, for in You I take refuge.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/16-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/19_Psa_016_001.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 16:1 - The Presence of God" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Preserve me, O God, for in You I take refuge." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/16-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/16-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/16.htm">Chapter 16</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/15-5.htm" title="Psalm 15:5">◄</a> Psalm 16:1 <a href="/psalms/16-2.htm" title="Psalm 16:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/psalms/16.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/psalms/16.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />A miktam of David. Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/psalms/16.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/psalms/16.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/psalms/16.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Miktam of David. Preserve me, O God, for in You I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/psalms/16.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/psalms/16.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />A Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/psalms/16.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Mikhtam of David. Protect me, God, for I take refuge in You.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/psalms/16.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />A Mikhtam of David. Preserve me, O God, for I take refuge in You.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/psalms/16.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Preserve me, O God, for I take refuge in Thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/psalms/16.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />A Mikhtam of David. Keep me, O God, for I take refuge in You.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/psalms/16.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />A Mikhtam of David [probably intended to record memorable thoughts]. Keep <i>and</i> protect me, O God, for in You I have placed my trust <i>and</i> found refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/psalms/16.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Miktam of David. † Protect me, God, for I take refuge in you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/psalms/16.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Davidic Miktam. Protect me, God, for I take refuge in You. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/psalms/16.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God; for in thee do I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/psalms/16.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Protect me, LORD God! I run to you for safety, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/psalms/16.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/psalms/16.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />[A [miktam] by David.] Protect me, O God, because I take refuge in you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/psalms/16.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Protect me, O God; I trust in you for safety. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/psalms/16.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Keep me safe, God, for I take refuge in you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/psalms/16.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />A Miktam of David. Preserve me, O God, for in You I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/psalms/16.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />A prayer of David. Protect me, O God, for I have taken shelter in you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/psalms/16.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />[A Poem by David.] Preserve me, God, for in you do I take refuge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/psalms/16.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/psalms/16.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />A Poem by David. Preserve me, God, for I take refuge in you. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/psalms/16.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />A MIKTAM OF DAVID. Preserve me, O God, for I trusted in You.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/psalms/16.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> A Secret Treasure of David. Preserve me, O God, for I did trust in Thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/psalms/16.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Writing of David Watch me, O God: in thee I put my trust.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/psalms/16.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />The inscription of a title to David himself. Preserve me, O Lord, for I have put trust in thee. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/psalms/16.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 15:1>The inscription of a title: of David himself. Preserve me, O Lord, because I have hoped in you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/psalms/16.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />A <i>miktam</i> of David. Keep me safe, O God; in you I take refuge. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/psalms/16.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/psalms/16.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />PRESERVE me, O God; for in thee do I put my trust.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/psalms/16.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Keep me, God, because I have trusted upon you.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/psalms/16.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Michtam of David. Keep me, O God; for I have taken refuge in Thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/psalms/16.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />A writing of David. Keep me, O Lord; for I have hoped in thee.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/psalms/16-1.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=1261" 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/16.htm">The Presence of God</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/4387.htm" title="4387: miḵ·tām (N-ms) -- A technical term in psalm titles. From katham; an engraving, i.e. A poem.">A Miktam</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: lə·ḏā·wiḏ (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David.</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šā·mə·rê·nî (V-Qal-Imp-ms:: 1cs) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc."> Preserve me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/410.htm" title="410: ’êl (N-ms) -- God, in pl. gods. Shortened from 'ayil; strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the Almighty.">O God,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/ḇāḵ (Prep:: 2ms) -- ">in You</a> <a href="/hebrew/2620.htm" title="2620: ḥā·sî·ṯî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- To seek refuge. A primitive root; to flee for protection; figuratively, to confide in.">I take refuge.</a> </span><span class="reftext">2</span>I said to the LORD, “You are my Lord; apart from You I have no good thing.”…<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/46-1.htm">Psalm 46:1</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.<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="/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="/isaiah/26-3.htm">Isaiah 26:3-4</a></span><br />You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You. / Trust in the LORD forever, because GOD the LORD is the Rock eternal.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/62-7.htm">Psalm 62:7-8</a></span><br />My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God. / Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge. Selah<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7-8</a></span><br />The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. / The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/31-1.htm">Psalm 31:1-2</a></span><br />For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; save me by Your righteousness. / Incline Your ear to me; come quickly to my rescue. Be my rock of refuge, the stronghold of my deliverance.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/61-3.htm">Psalm 61:3-4</a></span><br />For You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy. / Let me dwell in Your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. Selah<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/71-1.htm">Psalm 71:1</a></span><br />In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/142-5.htm">Psalm 142:5</a></span><br />I cry to You, O LORD: “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/22-31.htm">2 Samuel 22:31</a></span><br />As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/12-2.htm">Isaiah 12:2</a></span><br />Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. For the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and He also has become my salvation.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/nahum/1-7.htm">Nahum 1:7</a></span><br />The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/1-5.htm">1 Peter 1:5</a></span><br />who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Preserve me, O God: for in you do I put my trust.</p><p class="hdg">A.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/56-1.htm">Psalm 56:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician upon Jonathelemrechokim, Michtam of David, when the Philistines took him in Gath. Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/60-1.htm">Psalm 60:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician upon Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aramnaharaim and with Aramzobah, when Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the valley of salt twelve thousand. O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.</p><p class="hdg">Preserve</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/17-5.htm">Psalm 17:5,8</a></b></br> Hold up my goings in thy paths, <i>that</i> my footsteps slip not… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/31-23.htm">Psalm 31:23</a></b></br> O love the LORD, all ye his saints: <i>for</i> the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/37-28.htm">Psalm 37:28</a></b></br> For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.</p><p class="hdg">for</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/9-10.htm">Psalm 9:10</a></b></br> And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/22-8.htm">Psalm 22:8</a></b></br> He trusted on the LORD <i>that</i> he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/25-20.htm">Psalm 25:20</a></b></br> O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/15-5.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/13-5.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/psalms/15-5.htm">Michtam</a> <a href="/psalms/60-1.htm">Miktam</a> <a href="/psalms/60-1.htm">Poem</a> <a href="/psalms/12-7.htm">Preserve</a> <a href="/psalms/14-6.htm">Refuge</a> <a href="/psalms/12-7.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/psalms/10-9.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/job/38-22.htm">Treasure</a> <a href="/psalms/13-5.htm">Trust</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/16-11.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/17-7.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/psalms/55-23.htm">Michtam</a> <a href="/psalms/56-1.htm">Miktam</a> <a href="/psalms/34-1.htm">Poem</a> <a href="/psalms/25-21.htm">Preserve</a> <a href="/psalms/17-7.htm">Refuge</a> <a href="/psalms/18-3.htm">Safe</a> <a href="/psalms/17-12.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/psalms/17-14.htm">Treasure</a> <a href="/psalms/17-7.htm">Trust</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 16</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/16-1.htm">David, in distrust of merits, and hatred of idolatry</a></span><br><span class="reftext">5. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/psalms/16-5.htm">He shows the hope of his calling, of the resurrection, and life everlasting</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 />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <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/16.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/16.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>A Miktam of David.</b><br>The term "Miktam" is often understood as a musical or liturgical term, possibly indicating a type of psalm or a specific style of composition. It is used in the titles of six psalms (Psalms 16 and 56-60). The exact meaning is uncertain, but it may suggest a golden or precious nature, indicating the value of the psalm's message. David, the attributed author, was the second king of Israel and a central figure in the Old Testament, known for his deep relationship with God and his role as a prophet and psalmist. His life experiences, including his time as a shepherd, warrior, and king, deeply influenced his writings.<p><b>Preserve me, O God,</b><br>This plea for preservation reflects a deep trust in God's protection and care. The Hebrew word for "preserve" can also mean to guard or keep safe, indicating a request for divine safeguarding against physical or spiritual threats. David often faced danger, whether from enemies like Saul or external threats to his kingdom. This phrase echoes the broader biblical theme of God as a protector, as seen in other scriptures like <a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7-8</a>, where God is described as the one who keeps His people from harm.<p><b>for in You I take refuge.</b><br>Taking refuge in God implies seeking safety and security in His presence, much like a person finding shelter from a storm. This imagery is common in the Psalms, where God is frequently depicted as a fortress or stronghold (e.g., <a href="/psalms/18-2.htm">Psalm 18:2</a>). The concept of refuge also carries a spiritual dimension, suggesting trust and reliance on God's faithfulness and sovereignty. This phrase connects to the broader biblical narrative of God as a refuge for His people, as seen in <a href="/deuteronomy/33-27.htm">Deuteronomy 33:27</a>, where God is described as an eternal refuge. Additionally, it foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Christ as a refuge for believers, offering spiritual safety and salvation.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The author of <a href="/bsb/psalms/16.htm">Psalm 16</a>, David was the second king of Israel, known for his deep relationship with God and his role as a psalmist. His life was marked by both triumphs and trials, making his reliance on God a central theme in his writings.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God (Elohim)</a></b><br>The Hebrew word used here is "Elohim," a plural form that denotes the majesty and power of God. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and ability to protect and preserve.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/r/refuge.htm">Refuge</a></b><br>In the context of ancient Israel, a refuge was a place of safety and protection, often a fortress or a stronghold. Spiritually, it represents God's protection over His people.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/g/god_as_our_protector.htm">God as Our Protector</a></b><br>Just as David sought God's protection, we too can trust in God's ability to preserve us in times of trouble.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_refuge_in_god.htm">Seeking Refuge in God</a></b><br>In a world full of uncertainties, finding refuge in God provides peace and security that the world cannot offer.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/faith_in_god's_sovereignty.htm">Faith in God's Sovereignty</a></b><br>Recognizing God's sovereignty helps us to rely on His wisdom and timing, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/prayer_as_a_means_of_refuge.htm">Prayer as a Means of Refuge</a></b><br>Prayer is a powerful tool for seeking God's refuge, allowing us to express our dependence on Him and receive His peace.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/living_with_confidence.htm">Living with Confidence</a></b><br>Knowing that God is our refuge enables us to live confidently, without fear of what the future holds.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_16.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 16</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'michtam'_mean_in_psalms.htm">What is the meaning of Michtam in the Psalms?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_psalm_91_contradict_job's_suffering.htm">In light of biblical accounts where the righteous do suffer (e.g., Job), does Psalm 91 contradict other Scriptures regarding God's protection?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'incline_your_ear'_mean.htm">Should we escape to the mountains for safety?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_can_good_exist_without_god.htm">(Psalm 16:2) How can the psalmist claim to have no good apart from God, when nonbelievers also demonstrate goodness and virtue without a religious framework? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/16.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) <span class= "bld">For in thee.</span>--Better, <span class= "ital">for I have found refuge in thee </span>(as in <a href="/psalms/7-1.htm" title="O LORD my God, in you do I put my trust: save me from all them that persecute me, and deliver me:">Psalm 7:1</a>; <a href="/psalms/11-1.htm" title="In the LORD put I my trust: how say you to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain?">Psalm 11:1</a>). The verb is in the preterite.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/16.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Preserve me, O God;</span> <span class="accented">i.e.</span> keep me, guard me - protect me both in body and soul. It does not appear that the writer is threatened by any special danger. He simply calls upon God to continue his protecting care. <span class="cmt_word">For in thee do I put my trust.</span> In thee, and in thee only. Therefore to thee only do I look for protection and preservation. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/psalms/16-1.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">A Miktam</span><br /><span class="heb">מִכְתָּ֥ם</span> <span class="translit">(miḵ·tām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4387.htm">Strong's 4387: </a> </span><span class="str2">A technical term in psalm titles</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of David.</span><br /><span class="heb">לְדָוִ֑ד</span> <span class="translit">(lə·ḏā·wiḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> </span><span class="str2">David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Preserve me,</span><br /><span class="heb">שָֽׁמְרֵ֥נִי</span> <span class="translit">(šā·mə·rê·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> </span><span class="str2">To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">O God,</span><br /><span class="heb">אֵ֝֗ל</span> <span class="translit">(’êl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_410.htm">Strong's 410: </a> </span><span class="str2">Strength -- as adjective, mighty, the Almighty</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">in You</span><br /><span class="heb">בָֽךְ׃</span> <span class="translit">(ḇāḵ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> </span><span class="str2"></span><br /><br /><span class="word">I take refuge.</span><br /><span class="heb">חָסִ֥יתִי</span> <span class="translit">(ḥā·sî·ṯî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2620.htm">Strong's 2620: </a> </span><span class="str2">To flee for, protection, to confide in</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/psalms/16-1.htm">Psalm 16:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/psalms/16-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 16:1 A Poem by David (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/15-5.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 15:5"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 15:5" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/16-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 16:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 16:2" /></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>