Bible Commentaries
Psalms 46

Verses 1-11

Psalms 46-48 form a group which we may assign with little doubt to the reign of Hezekiah, when Sennacherib’s army was suddenly destroyed (2 Kings 19:35). They all strike the same note of gratitude, confidence, and praise, which is found in Isaiah’s references to the same event (Isaiah 29-31, 33, 37). Psalms 46 is divided into three strophes, and the refrain of Psalms 46:7, Psalms 46:11 probably stood also between Psalms 46:3 and Psalms 46:4.

Title.—EV ’Set to Alamoth.’ Alamoth is generally understood to mean ’soprano’ (see 1 Chronicles 15:20).

1. Our refuge and strength] the original of Luther’s famous Ein’ feste Burg.

2, 3. The language is figurative of stress and trouble.

4. A river] the river of God’s presence and favour: see Psalms 46:5, Isaiah 33:21 cp. Isaiah 8:6. Shall make glad] RV ’make glad.’

5. Right early] RM ’when the morning appeareth.’

6. Heathen] RV ’nations.’ So in Psalms 46:10.

7. Lord of hosts] see on Psalms 24:10.

8. Desolations] rather, ’astonishments’ or ’wonders.’

10. Be still] Desist from your vain efforts: cp. Psalms 4:4.