He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The psalm doesn't promise that the believer won't face trouble, but that these troubles won't be permanent or cause utter ruin. The phrase "greatly moved" implies that while there might be shaking, the core of their being, anchored in God, will remain secure and ultimately be restored.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The psalmist is declaring his absolute trust in God amidst a period of intense opposition and danger, likely from enemies who are slandering him and plotting his downfall. He's emphasizing that despite the turmoil and the malicious attacks, his ultimate security and stability come solely from God, who is his unshakeable fortress. This declaration is a confident response to the precariousness he feels, asserting that he won't be utterly overthrown by his adversaries.
When the ground beneath you feels shaky, where do you stand? David uses powerful imagery to describe where his ultimate security lies.
The verse declares, 'He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress.' This isn't just a pretty metaphor; it's a bold statement of exclusive trust.
The 'Only'
The word 'only' (or 'alone') is crucial here. David isn't saying God is one of the things that supports him. He's saying God is the single, ultimate source of his stability and deliverance. This highlights that true security is found not in a collection of helpful things or people, but in God Himself.
Rock, Salvation, Fortress
Even the most solid things can be shaken. What does it mean to be 'not greatly moved' when life throws its worst at you?
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The powerful declaration, 'I shall not be greatly shaken,' doesn't promise a life free from trouble. Instead, it speaks to an inner resilience that prevents utter collapse.
Not 'Not Moved' but 'Not Greatly Moved'
Commentators note that the Hebrew implies 'not much' or 'not greatly' moved. This is a realistic hope! It acknowledges that believers might still experience distress, doubt, or even stumble. However, it means they will not be permanently overthrown or cast down into ultimate despair.
The Source of Resilience
This stability isn't self-generated. It flows directly from the 'rock,' 'salvation,' and 'fortress' mentioned earlier – from God Himself. When our identity and security are rooted in Him, the storms of life may buffet us, but they won't destroy our core.
Think of it like a sturdy ship in a storm. It will rock and sway, perhaps take on water, but its fundamental integrity allows it to survive and eventually find calm seas again because its foundation is strong.
Understand the original words
tsur · Hebrew Noun
A metaphor describing God as a secure, immovable foundation and refuge. It conveys the idea of divine protection and stability amidst life's trials.
misgab · Hebrew Noun
A fortified place or stronghold; a metaphor for God as a secure defense against enemies and troubles.
mot · Hebrew Verb
A state of being moved, unstable, or cast down. It relates to the feeling of insecurity or the actual experience of being overwhelmed by opposition or hardship.
This passage beautifully echoes the 'rock' imagery, describing God as 'a Rock; his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice.' It highlights God's unchanging character, which is the solid foundation for the psalmist's trust.
2 Samuel 22:2-3David himself sings of God as his 'rock,' 'fortress,' 'deliverer,' 'my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,' and 'my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.' This shows a consistent understanding of God's protective nature throughout David's life.
Matthew 7:24-25Jesus uses the metaphor of building a house on a rock versus sand, stating that only the one who hears His words and puts them into practice will stand firm against life's storms. This links the stability found in God to obedience and faith.
1 Corinthians 10:13This verse assures believers that God is faithful and will not allow them to be tempted beyond what they can bear, providing a way out. It speaks to the 'not greatly moved' aspect, showing God's provision for enduring trials.
Philippians 4:7The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This inner security mirrors the unshaken steadfastness the psalmist claims in God alone.
gillPsalms 62:2: "He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved."
He only is my Rock and my salvation,.... The Rock on which the church is built, and every believer; and which was David's safety, shelter, and shade, and which made him easy in his present state; and he was the author of his salvation, and the rock and strength of it, Psalm 95:1 ; he is my defence; or refuge; see Psalm 9:9; I shall not be greatly moved; or "with much motion", as Kimchi; or "with…
ellicottPsalms 62:2: "He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved."
(2) Defence. —Properly, high tower, as so often. The metaphor is important here from the contrast with the tottering wall of next verse. Shall not be greatly moved . . .—i.e. (as in Psalm 37:24), shall not be made to totter or fall.
The psalm doesn't promise that the believer won't face trouble, but that these troubles won't be permanent or cause utter ruin. The phrase "greatly moved" implies that while there might be shaking, the core of their being, anchored in God, will remain secure and ultimately be restored.
The psalmist is declaring his absolute trust in God amidst a period of intense opposition and danger, likely from enemies who are slandering him and plotting his downfall. He's emphasizing that despite the turmoil and the malicious attacks, his ultimate security and stability come solely from God, who is his unshakeable fortress. This declaration is a confident response to the precariousness he feels, asserting that he won't be utterly overthrown by his adversaries.
The psalmist is declaring his absolute trust in God amidst a period of intense opposition and danger, likely from enemies who are slandering him and plotting his downfall. He's emphasizing that despite the turmoil and the malicious attacks, his ultimate security and stability come solely from God, who is his unshakeable fortress. This declaration is a confident response to the precariousness he feels, asserting that he won't be utterly overthrown by his adversaries.
"He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken." — The psalm doesn't promise that the believer won't face trouble, but that these troubles won't be permanent or cause utter ruin. The phrase "greatly moved" implies that while there might be shaking,…
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Last reviewed October 2026