Scripture Guide

Scripture guide, Psalm 121

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

Keywords (9)

Scripture (5)

Updated

Feb 14, 2025

AIM Commentary

Ancient lens

What’s the historical context?

Historical Background

In our modern world we know so much about our universe that it is easy to forget that in the Bible there is a connection between the Creator and the Redeemer. If the swell of interest in the universe, which we applaud, would connect to our Redeemer Christ, as the psalmists do, and as Scripture generally does, this would be a different world.

Psalm 121 is a traveling psalm in that it uses traveling images: “the hills”; “He will not let your foot be moved”; “the LORD is your shade on your right hand”; “The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night”; “your going out and your coming in.” And that is not surprising because a major…

Subscriber Content

Get Full Access Today

Interested in viewing our resources? Try our 7-day free trial.

Try Now Sign In

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

C. Hassell Bullock is the Franklin S. Dyrness Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College (IL), where he served with distinction for 36 years. As a renowned scholar in Old Testament studies, particularly in the area of Psalms and Old Testament poetry, Dr. Bullock’s work has made a profound impact on biblical scholarship and Christian ministry. He holds degrees from Samford University (Birmingham, AL), Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA), and Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati, OH), which reflect his deep academic commitment to the Scriptures.

Dr. Bullock is widely recognized for his expertise in the Psalms, contributing significantly to both scholarly and pastoral conversations on the subject. His publications include The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic). His insights into the poetic structure and theological depth of the Psalms have enriched the understanding of these sacred texts for students, scholars, and church leaders alike.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Bullock has also served Presbyterian congregations in Alabama and Illinois over the course of his 40-year teaching and ministry career, blending scholarly insight with pastoral care. He is deeply committed to his family, sharing life with his wife, Rhonda, his college sweetheart. Together, they have raised a son, Scott, and a daughter, and they take great joy in the lives of their five grandchildren.

Dr. Bullock’s legacy continues to inspire students, pastors, and scholars, emphasizing the enduring richness and theological depth of the Psalms and the poetic beauty of the Old Testament. His work remains a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture.

The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic).