Psalms 91 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 91 Psa 91:1-16 . David is the most probable author; and the pestilence, mentioned in 2Sa 24:13-15 , the most probable of any special occasion to which the Psalm may refer. The changes of person allowable in poetry are here frequently made. 1. dwelleth in the secret place-- ( Psa 27:5 ; 31:20 ) denotes nearness to God. Such as do so abide or lodge secure from assaults, and can well use the terms of trust in Psa 91:2 .
3. snares ... [and] ... noisome pestilence-- literally, "plagues of mischiefs" ( Psa 5:9 ; 52:7 ), are expressive figures for various evils.
4. For the first figure compare De 32:11 ; Mt 23:37 . buckler-- literally, "surrounding"--that is, a kind of shield covering all over.
5. terror-- or, what causes it ( Pr 20:2 ). by night-- then aggravated. arrow-- that is, of enemies.
7-8. The security is more valuable, as being special, and, therefore, evidently of God; and while ten thousands of the wicked fall, the righteous are in such safety that they only see the calamity.
9-12. This exemption from evil is the result of trust in God, who employs angels as ministering spirits ( He 1:14 ).
13. Even the fiercest, strongest, and most insidious animals may be trampled on with impunity.
14-16. God Himself speaks (compare Psa 46:10 ; 75:2 , 3 ). All the terms to express safety and peace indicate the most undoubting confidence (compare Psa 18:2 ; 20:1 ; 22:5 ). set his love-- that of the most ardent kind.