A symbol of strength (see Deut. 33:17).

 Heb. magen, translated “shield” in Ps. 3:3 and in the parallel passage of 2 Sam. 22:3.

 Heb. ṣur, “a large rock,” used descriptively of God five times in Deut. 32 (vs. 4, 15, 18, 30, 31).

 Heb. meṣudah, “a place difficult to approach,” or, “a stronghold” (see 1 Sam. 22:4).

 Heb. sela‘, “a mountain crag,” “a cliff.” David had once found refuge in such a crag when chased by Saul (see 1 Sam. 23:25). Here he applies the word to God, the sure refuge.

 2 Sam. 22:3 adds “my saviour; thou savest me from violence.” By this galaxy of figures, taken from the ceaseless struggles of his life, David endeavors to portray all that God has been to him in his earthly pilgrimage. For similar profusion of imagery in addressing God, see Ps. 31:1-3; 71:1-7. David is exuberant in his praise.