Ephesians 6:16

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Above all, [ epi (G1909)]. So A. Delta G 'Over all:' so as to cover all that was put on before. Three integuments are specified-the breastplate, girdle, and shoes; two defenses-the helmet and shield; and two offensive weapons-the sword and the spear (prayer). Ellicott, etc., 'Besides (in addition to) all,' as in Luke 3:20. But if it meant this, it would have come last in the list (cf. Colossians 3:14). But 'Aleph (') B f g, Vulgate read [ en (G1722)] 'In all (things).'

Taking, [ analabontes (G353)] - 'taking up.'

Shield - the oblong door-like [ thureon (G2375), from thura (G2374)] shield of the Romans 4:1 feet long by 2 1/2 feet wide; not the small round buckler.

Ye shall be able - not merely 'ye may.' The shield of faith will certainly intercept, and so 'quench all the fire-rapt [pepuromena] darts,' (ancient fire-darts were formed of cane, with tow and combustibles ignited on the head, so as to set fire to wood-work, tents, etc.)

Of the wicked - `of the EVIL ONE.' Faith conquers (1 Peter 5:9) his darts of temptation to, wrath, lust, revenge, despair, etc. It overcomes the world (1 John 5:4), and so the prince of the world (1 John 5:18).