Psalms 46 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
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 Psa 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 ; Is 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.
4. God's favor is denoted by a river (compare Psa 36:8 ; Zec 14:8 ; Re 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 Is 37:36 ).
6. (Compare Psa 46:2 ). earth melted-- all powers dissolved by His mere word ( Psa 75:3 ; Ho 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 Is 2:11 ; Ep 1:22 ).