This verse reminds us that those who trust in God find themselves cherished, guarded, and hidden in His loving protection.
David, who likely composed this psalm around 1000 BC during his reign as the second king of Israel, begins by seeking personal refuge and care in God’s presence. In Psalm 17:8 he implores: “Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Your wings” (v.8). David lived from approximately 1040 BC to 970 BC, and was known for turning to the LORD—whom he often addressed with profound respect and trust—for deliverance from danger and injustices. Here, David calls himself the “apple of the eye,” a Hebrew expression used to convey profound worth and vulnerability. By appealing for divine care, he underscores how personally and intimately God cherishes His faithful ones.
The imagery of being hidden “in the shadow of Your wings” (v.8) evokes the warm protection of a mother bird shielding her chicks from threats. David’s plea reflects a deep conviction that safety comes from abiding closely with God. This resonates with themes throughout many psalms, where the LORD is a refuge who grants security to those who trust Him (Psalm 57:1). Just as fledglings find covering under a parent’s feathers, David seeks God’s comforting defense amid the various trials he endured—whether in wilderness pursuits by Saul, conflicts arising in his kingdom, or personal turmoil.
Followers of Christ also find this verse relevant. In the New Testament, Jesus likens Himself to a mother hen longing to gather her chicks under her wings (Matthew 23:37). This reflects the same steadfast desire to shelter and nurture. In both David’s time and the time of Christ, the faithful are invited to look to God’s protective embrace and rest in His watchful care.
God treasures and protects those who seek Him, and Psalm 17:8 captures the heart of that promise in David’s humble, fervent prayer.
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Psalms 17:8 meaning
David, who likely composed this psalm around 1000 BC during his reign as the second king of Israel, begins by seeking personal refuge and care in God’s presence. In Psalm 17:8 he implores: “Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Your wings” (v.8). David lived from approximately 1040 BC to 970 BC, and was known for turning to the LORD—whom he often addressed with profound respect and trust—for deliverance from danger and injustices. Here, David calls himself the “apple of the eye,” a Hebrew expression used to convey profound worth and vulnerability. By appealing for divine care, he underscores how personally and intimately God cherishes His faithful ones.
The imagery of being hidden “in the shadow of Your wings” (v.8) evokes the warm protection of a mother bird shielding her chicks from threats. David’s plea reflects a deep conviction that safety comes from abiding closely with God. This resonates with themes throughout many psalms, where the LORD is a refuge who grants security to those who trust Him (Psalm 57:1). Just as fledglings find covering under a parent’s feathers, David seeks God’s comforting defense amid the various trials he endured—whether in wilderness pursuits by Saul, conflicts arising in his kingdom, or personal turmoil.
Followers of Christ also find this verse relevant. In the New Testament, Jesus likens Himself to a mother hen longing to gather her chicks under her wings (Matthew 23:37). This reflects the same steadfast desire to shelter and nurture. In both David’s time and the time of Christ, the faithful are invited to look to God’s protective embrace and rest in His watchful care.
God treasures and protects those who seek Him, and Psalm 17:8 captures the heart of that promise in David’s humble, fervent prayer.