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).
      by night--then aggravated.
      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).

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