Psalms 31

Psalms 31:1

Raven - Having mentioned the noblest of brute creatures, he now mentions one of the most contemptible; to shew the care of God’s providence over all creatures, both great and small. Their young ones are so soon forsaken by their dams, that if God did not provide for them in a more than ordinary manner, they would be starved to death. And will he that provides for the young ravens, fail to provide for his own children.

Psalms 31:2

Young ones - Notwithstanding their great weakness caused by their hard entrance into the world. Grow up - As with corn, that is, as if they were fed with corn. Go forth - Finding sufficient provisions abroad by the care of God’s providence.

Psalms 31:3

Sent - Who hath given him this disposition that he loves freedom, and hates that subjection which other creatures quietly endure? Loosed - Who keeps him from receiving the bands, and submitting to the service of man.

Psalms 31:5

Scorneth - He feareth them not when they pursue him, because he is swift, and can easily escape them. Driver - He will not be brought to receive his yoke, nor to do his drudgery.

Psalms 31:6

Mountains - He prefers that mean provision with his freedom, before the fattest pastures with servitude.

Psalms 31:7

Unicorn - It is disputed whether this be the Rhinoceros; or a kind of wild bull.

Psalms 31:14

Her labour - In laying her eggs is in vain, because she hath not the fear and tender concern for them, which she should have.

Psalms 31:15

Deprived - Because God hath not implanted in her that instinct, and affection, which he hath put into other birds and beasts toward their young.

Psalms 31:16

Lifteth - To flee from her pursuer: to which end she lifts up her head and body, and spreads her wings. Scorneth - She despises them thro’ her swiftness; for though she cannot fly, yet by the aid of her wings she runs so fast, that horse - men cannot reach her.

Psalms 31:17

Thunder - A strong metaphor, to denote force and terror.

Psalms 31:19

Valley - Battles used to be pitched in valleys, or low grounds, especially horse battles.

Psalms 31:21

Quiver - The quiver is here put for the arrows contained in it, which being shot against the horse and rider, make a rattling noise.

Psalms 31:22

Swalloweth - He is so full of rage and fury, that he not only champs his bridle, but is ready to tear and devour the very ground on which he goes. Believeth - He is so pleased with the approach of the battle, and the sound of the trumpet calling to it, that he can scarce believe his ears for gladness.

Psalms 31:23

Ha, ha - An expression of joy and alacrity declared by his proud neighings. Thunder - The loud and joyful clamour begun by the commanders, and followed by the soldiers when they are ready to join battle.

Psalms 31:24

Fly - So strongly, constantly, unweariedly, and swiftly. South - At the approach of winter, when wild hawks fly into warmer countries, as being impatient of cold. The birds of the air are proofs of the wonderful providence of God, as well as the beasts of the earth. God instances in two stately ones.