Psalm 91 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

91:1

Psalm 91:1-16. David is the most probable author; and the pestilence, mentioned in 2 Samuel 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.

dwelleth in the secret place — (Psalm 27:5; Psalm 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 Psalm 91:2.

91:3 [and] noisome pestilence — literally, “plagues of mischiefs” (Psalm 5:9; Psalm 52:7), are expressive figures for various evils.91:4

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

buckler — literally, “surrounding” - that is, a kind of shield covering all over.

91:5

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

by night — then aggravated.

arrow — that is, of enemies.

91:7-8

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.

91:9-12

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

91:13

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

91:14-16

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

set his love — that of the most ardent kind.

91:16

show him — literally, “make him see” (Psalm 50:23; Luke 2:30).