Psalms 46 Footnotes

Ps 46 This psalm, ascribed to the Levitical singers (“sons of Korah”), is called a song of Zion because it focuses on the security of the Holy City, the place of God’s presence. The theme of “God is with us” recalls “Immanuel” in Is 7:14; 8:8.

46:4 There is no river, properly speaking, in Jerusalem; the river mentioned here could be a metaphor for the life-giving influence of worship and service flowing from the sanctuary of God (Rv 22:1-2; see note on Ezk 47:1-12). Alternatively, the psalmist could have in mind the water flowing from the Gihon spring under the city of David into the pool of Siloam. In a time of warfare such a steady water supply inside the fortified city would certainly make the people glad. The river in the Holy City may also allude to the garden (Gn 2:10-14; see Ps 36:9). In time of war or natural upheaval, God’s presence would guarantee protection and provision.