Commentary Critical And Explanatory On The Whole Bible

Ps 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 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. Ps 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 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" (Ps 2:12).

strength -- (Ps 18:2).

present help -- literally, "a help He has been found exceedingly."

trouble -- as in Ps 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 Ps 36:8; Zec 14:8; Re 22:1).

city of God, the holy place -- His earthly residence, Jerusalem and the temple (compare Ps 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 (Ps 17:2).

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

6. (Compare Ps 46:2).

earth melted -- all powers dissolved by His mere word (Ps 75:3; Ho 2:22).

7. with us -- on our side; His presence is terror to our enemies, safety to us.

refuge -- high place (Ps 9:9; compare also Ps 24:6, 10).

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

9. The usual weapons of war (Ps 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).