Psalms 48 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
48:1
1. to be praised--always: it is an epithet, as in Psa 18:3. mountain of his holiness--His Church (compare Is 2:2, 3; 25:6, 7, 10); the sanctuary was erected first on Mount Zion, then (as the temple) on Moriah; hence the figure.
48:2–3
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 Is 14:13).
48:4–6
4-6. For--The reason is given. Though the kings (perhaps of Moab and Ammon, compare Psa 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.
48:7
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.
48:8
8. This present experience assures of that perpetual care which God extends to His Church.
48:9
9. thought of--literally, "compared," or considered, in respect of former dealings. in the ... temple--in acts of solemn worship (compare 2Ch 20:28).
48:10
10. According ... praise--that is, As Thy perfections manifested (compare Psa 8:1; 20:1-7), demand praise, it shall be given, everywhere. thy right hand, c.--Thy righteous government is displayed by Thy power.
48:11
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.
48:12–14
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.