Protection in Psalm 121: 3-8 in African Yoruba Context

Protection of lives and property is a global concern especially in this era of insecurity in all the continents of the world. This study is an attempt to read Psalm 121: 3-8 in relation to Protection in African Yoruba Context. African biblical hermeneutics which provides a lens to reread biblical text in African Context was used for the study. It was discovered that the book of Psalm is one of the most popular books of the Bible. The Psalms are very rich in human experiences over the centuries and as such they are very popular in ancient Israel and the early Church. Portions of the Psalms are memorised and read by the Jews and Christians in worship services and at some special occasions. One of the Psalms that has gained recognition, quoted and alluded to in the time of danger or insecurity is Psalm 121. In Psalm 121: 3-8, the psalmist described Yahweh as a God that is committed to the protection of those who put their confidence in his ability to protect. Yahweh’s eyes are always watching and keeping his people from evil. Ancient Israel believed in the capacity of Yahweh to protect as evident in this Psalm and as such they read, memorise and inscribe portions of it on their documents and personal effects. The African Yoruba people read, memorise, inscribe portion of this Psalm on clothes, door posts and vehicles for protection purposes. The study concluded that Psalm 121: 3-8 is divine word and can be used to invoke protection in the events of danger, like the Yoruba use incantations (ogede). It is hoped that readers of the Psalm and the entire Bible in Africa will find hope, comfort and protection as they contextualised its contents.