Bible Commentaries
Psalms 91

Introduction

PSALM 91

:-. David is the most probable author; and the pestilence, mentioned in :-, the most probable of any special occasion to which the Psalm may refer. The changes of person allowable in poetry are here frequently made.

Verse 1

1. dwelleth in the secret place— (Psalms 27:5; Psalms 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 Psalms 31:20- :.

Verse 3

3. snares . . . [and] . . . noisome pestilence—literally, "plagues of mischiefs" (Psalms 5:9; Psalms 52:7), are expressive figures for various evils.

Verse 4

4. For the first figure compare Deuteronomy 32:11; Matthew 23:37.

buckler—literally, "surrounding"—that is, a kind of shield covering all over.

Verse 5

5. terror—or, what causes it (Proverbs 20:2).

by night—then aggravated.

arrow—that is, of enemies.

Verse 7

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.

Verse 9

9-12. This exemption from evil is the result of trust in God, who employs angels as ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:14).

Verse 13

13. Even the fiercest, strongest, and most insidious animals may be trampled on with impunity.

Verse 14

14-16. God Himself speaks (compare Psalms 46:10; Psalms 75:2; Psalms 75:3). All the terms to express safety and peace indicate the most undoubting confidence (compare Psalms 18:2; Psalms 20:1; Psalms 22:5).

set his love—that of the most ardent kind.

Verse 16

16. show him—literally, "make him see" (Psalms 50:23; Luke 2:30).