Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 3. Though the waters thereof roar ] Waters, in prophetic language, signify people; and, generally, people in a state of political commotion, here signified by the term roar. And by these strong agitations of the people, the mountains-the secular rulers, shake with the swelling thereof-tremble, for fear that these popular tumults should terminate in the subversion of the state. This very people had seen all Asia in a state of war. The Persians had overturned Asia Minor, and destroyed the Babylonian empire: they had seen Babylon itself sacked and entered by the Persians; and Cyrus, its conqueror, had behaved to them as a father and deliverer. While their oppressors were destroyed, themselves were preserved, and permitted to return to their own land.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-5 - This psalm encourages to hope and trust in God; in his power an providence, and his gracious presence with his church in the worst of times. We may apply it to spiritual enemies, and the encouragement we have that, through Christ, we shall be conquerors over them. He is Help, a present Help, a Help found, one whom we have found to be so; Help at hand, one that is always near; we cannot desire a better, no shall we ever find the like in any creature. Let those be troubled a the troubling of the waters, who build their confidence on a floatin foundation; but let not those be alarmed who are led to the Rock, an there find firm footing. Here is joy to the church, even in sorrowfu times. The river alludes to the graces and consolations of the Holy Spirit, which flow through every part of the church, and through God' sacred ordinances, gladdening the heart of every believer. It is promised that the church shall not be moved. If God be in our hearts by his word dwelling richly in us, we shall be established, we shall be helped; let us trust and not be afraid.
Original Hebrew יהמו1993 יחמרו2560 מימיו4325 ירעשׁו7493 הרים2022 בגאותו1346 סלה׃5542
