Psalms 91

Ps 91:1-16.

David is the most probable author; and the pestilence, mentioned in

2Sa 24:13-15,

the most probable of any special occasion to which the Psalm may refer.

The changes of person allowable in poetry are here frequently made.

1. dwelleth in the secret place--

(Ps 27:5; 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

Ps 91:2.

3. snares . . . [and] . . . noisome pestilence--literally,

"plagues of mischiefs"

(Ps 5:9; 52:7),

are expressive figures for various evils.

4. For the first figure compare

De 32:11;

Mt 23:37.

buckler--literally, "surrounding"--that is, a kind of shield covering

all over.

5. terror--or, what causes it

(Pr 20:2).

arrow--that is, of enemies.

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.

9-12. This exemption from evil is the result of trust in God, who

employs angels as ministering spirits

(Heb 1:14).

13. Even the fiercest, strongest, and most insidious animals may be

trampled on with impunity.

14-16. God Himself speaks (compare

Ps 46:10; 75:2, 3).

All the terms to express safety and peace indicate the most undoubting

confidence (compare

Ps 18:2; 20:1; 22:5).

set his love--that of the most ardent kind.

16. show him--literally, "make him see"

(Ps 50:23;

Lu 2:30).