Psalms 90 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
90:1
1. dwelling-place--home (compare Eze 11:16), as a refuge (De 33:27).
90:2
2. brought forth [and] formed--both express the idea of production by birth.
90:3
3. to destruction--literally, "even to dust" (Ge 3:19), which is partly quoted in the last clause.
90:4
4. Even were our days now a thousand years, as Adam's, our life would be but a moment in God's sight (2Pe 3:8). a watch--or, third part of a night (compare Ex 14:24).
90:5–6
5-6. Life is like grass, which, though changing under the influence of the night's dew, and flourishing in the morning, is soon cut down and withereth (Psa 103:15; 1Pe 1:24).
90:7–8
7-8. For--A reason, this is the infliction of God's wrath. troubled--literally, "confounded by terror" (Psa 2:5). Death is by sin (Ro 5:12). Though "secret," the light of God's countenance, as a candle, will bring sin to view (Pr 20:27; 1Co 4:5).
90:9
9. are passed--literally, "turn," as to depart (Jr 6:4). spend--literally, "consume." as a tale--literally, "a thought," or, "a sigh" (Eze 2:10).
90:10
10. Moses' life was an exception (De 34:7). it is ... cut off--or, "driven," as is said of the quails in using the same word (Nu 11:31). In view of this certain and speedy end, life is full of sorrow.
90:11
11. The whole verse may be read as a question implying the negative, "No one knows what Thy anger can do, and what Thy wrath is, estimated by a true piety."
90:12
12. This he prays we may know or understand, so as properly to number or appreciate the shortness of our days, that we may be wise.
90:13
13. (Compare Psa 13:2). let it repent--a strong figure, as in Ex 32:12, imploring a change in His dealings.
90:14
14. early--promptly.
90:15
15. As have been our sorrows, so let our joys be great and long.
90:16
16. thy work--or, providential acts. thy glory--(Psa 8:5; 45:3), the honor accruing from Thy work of mercy to us.
90:17
17. let the beauty--or sum of His gracious acts, in their harmony, be illustrated in us, and favor our enterprise.