PSALM 46

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 [592]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 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

2, 3. The most violent civil commotions are illustrated by the greatest physical commotions.

3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

3. swelling-well represents the pride and haughtiness of insolent foes.

4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.

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 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.

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 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.

6. (Compare Ps 46:2).

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

7 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

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 Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

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

9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

9. The usual weapons of war (Ps 7:12), as well as those using them, are brought to an end.

10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

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).

11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.