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The Blue Letter Bible

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown :: Commentary on Psalm 46

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The Book of Psalms

Commentary by A. R. FAUSSET

PSALM 46

Psa 46:1-11. Upon Alamoth--most probably denotes the treble, or part sung by female voices, the word meaning "virgins"; and which was sung with some appropriately keyed instrument (compare 1Ch 15:19-21; see on JF & B for Ps 6:1, title). The theme may be stated in LUTHER'S well-known words, "A mighty fortress is our God." The great deliverance ( 2Ki 19:35 Isa 37:36 ) may have occasioned its composition.

      1. refuge--literally, "a place of trust" ( Psa 2:12 ).
      strength-- ( Psa 18:2 ).
      present help--literally, "a help He has been found exceedingly."
      trouble--as in Psa 18:7.

      2, 3. The most violent civil commotions are illustrated by the greatest physical commotions.

      3. swelling--well represents the pride and haughtiness of insolent foes.

      4. God's favor is denoted by a river (compare Psa 36:8 Zec 14:8 Rev 22:1 ).
      city of God, the holy place--His earthly residence, Jerusalem and the temple (compare Psa 2:6 3:4 20:2 48:2, &c.). God's favor, like a river whose waters are conducted in channels, is distributed to all parts of His Church.
      most High--denoting His supremacy ( Psa 17:2 ).

      5. right early--literally, "at the turn of morning," or change from night to day, a critical time ( Psa 30:5; compare Isa 37:36 ).

      6. (Compare Psa 46:2 ).
      earth melted--all powers dissolved by His mere word ( Psa 75:3 Hsa 2:22 ).

      7. with us--on our side; His presence is terror to our enemies, safety to us.
      refuge--high place ( Psa 9:9; compare also Psa 24:6, 10 ).

      8. what desolations--literally, "who hath put desolations," destroying our enemies.

      9. The usual weapons of war ( Psa 7:12 ), as well as those using them, are brought to an end.

      10. Be still, &c.--literally, "Leave off to oppose Me and vex My people. I am over all for their safety." (Compare Isa 2:11 Eph 1:22 ).

Introduction to Job ← Prior Book
Introduction to Proverbs Next Book →
Commentary on Psalm 45 ← Prior Chapter
Commentary on Psalm 47 Next Chapter →
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