shield

Definition

A shield was an object held by a soldier in battle to protect himself from being injured by the enemy’s weapons. To “shield” someone means to protect that person from harm.

• Shields were often circular or oval, were made of materials such as leather, wood, or metal, and were sturdy and thick enough to keep a sword or arrow from piercing them.
• Using this term as a metaphor, the Bible refers to God as a protective shield for his people. (See: Metaphor)
• Paul talked about the “shield of faith,” which is a figurative way of saying that having faith in Jesus and living out that faith in obedience to God will protect believers from the spiritual attacks of Satan.

(See also: faith, obey, Satan, spirit)

Bible References

• 1 Kings 14:26
• 2 Chronicles 23:8-9
• 2 Samuel 22:36
• Deuteronomy 33:29
• Psalms 18:35

Word Data

• Strong’s: H2653, H3591, H4043, H5437, H5526, H6793, H7982, G23750