Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 91

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.