@Ps 48:1-14. This is a spirited Psalm and song (compare @Ps 30:1), having probably been suggested by the same occasion as the foregoing. It sets forth the privileges and blessings of God's spiritual dominion as the terror of the wicked and joy of the righteous.
1. to be praised--always: it is an epithet, as in @Ps 18:3.
mountain of his holiness--His Church (compare
@Isa 2:2,3 25:6,7,10); the sanctuary was erected first on Mount
Zion, then (as the temple) on Moriah; hence the figure.
2, 3. situation--literally, "elevation."
joy of, &c.--source of joy.
sides of the north--poetically for eminent, lofty, distinguished, as
the ancients believed the north to be the highest part of the earth
(compare @Isa 14:13).
3. palaces--literally, "citadels."
refuge--(@Ps 9:10 18:3). He was so known in them because they
enjoyed His presence.
4-6. For--The reason is given. Though the kings (perhaps of Moab and Ammon, compare @Ps 83:3-5) combined, a conviction of God's presence with His people, evinced by the unusual courage with which the prophets (compare @2Ch 20:12-20) had inspired them, seized on their minds, and smitten with sudden and intense alarm, they fled astonished.
7. ships of Tarshish--as engaged in a distant and lucrative trade, the most valuable. The phrase may illustrate God's control over all material agencies, whether their literal destruction be meant or not.
8. This present experience assures of that perpetual care which God extends to His Church.
9. thought of--literally, "compared," or considered, in respect of
former dealings.
in the . . . temple-- in acts of solemn worship (compare
@2Ch 20:28).
10. According . . . praise--that is, As Thy perfections manifested
(compare @Ps 8:1 20:1-7), demand praise, it shall be given, everywhere.
thy right hand, &c.--Thy righteous government is displayed by Thy
power.
11. the daughters, &c.--the small towns, or the people, with the
chief city, or rulers of the Church.
judgments--decisions and acts of right government.
12-14. The call to survey Zion, or the Church, as a fortified city, is designed to suggest "how well our God secures His fold." This security is perpetual, and its pledge is His guidance through this life.