Commentary by A. R. FAUSSET
PSALM 46
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 JFB for 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; Isa 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.
3. swelling—well represents the pride and haughtiness of insolent foes.
4. God's favor is denoted by a river (compare Psa 36:8; Zec 14:8; Rev 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, etc.). 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 Isa 37:36).
6. (Compare Psa 46:2).
earth melted—all powers dissolved by His mere word (Psa 75:3; Hsa 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, etc.—literally, "Leave off to oppose Me and vex My people. I am over all for their safety." (Compare Isa 2:11; Eph 1:22).