The protection Psalms in Shimush Tehillim are the text's most famous and widely practiced section. For centuries, Jewish communities around the world have recited specific Psalms in moments of danger—during epidemics, before journeys, in wartime, and during childbirth—based on the traditions preserved in this text.
Psalm 91 stands at the top of every protection list. Known in Jewish tradition as the Shir shel Pega'im (שיר של פגעים), the "Song Against Evil Encounters," Psalm 91 promises that "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalms 91:1). Shimush Tehillim instructs that this Psalm should be recited before entering any dangerous place—a forest, a battlefield, a city struck by plague. The Talmud (Shevuot 15b) already identifies Psalm 91 as a protective text, and its recitation became a standard Jewish practice against demons, disease, and the evil eye.
Psalm 121—"I lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where does my help come?" (Psalms 121:1)—is prescribed for travelers. Shimush Tehillim instructs that it should be recited seven times before departing on a journey, especially one that involves crossing water or traversing dangerous terrain. The Psalm's promise that "God will guard your going out and your coming in" (Psalms 121:8) is taken literally as a divine guarantee of safe passage.
Psalm 20 is designated for protection during legal disputes and confrontations with powerful enemies. "May God answer you in the day of trouble" (Psalms 20:2) is recited before entering a courtroom or meeting a hostile authority. Psalm 3—"Lord, how many are my enemies"—is for those surrounded by people who wish them harm. Psalm 27—"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" (Psalms 27:1)—is for courage when facing overwhelming odds.
Shimush Tehillim also prescribes Psalm 67 in the shape of a menorah—the seven-branched candelabrum—written on parchment and carried as an amulet. This tradition, which became widespread in Sephardic communities, involves writing the Psalm's seven verses in the form of the menorah's seven branches, creating a visual talisman that combines the protective power of the Psalm with the sacred symbolism of the Temple menorah.