Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 46

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).