45:1ff This is called a messianic psalm because it prophetically describes the Messiah’s future relationship to the church, his body of believers. Verse 2 expresses God’s abundant blessing on his Messiah; verses 6-8 find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ (Hebrews 1:8, 9). The church is described as the bride of Christ in Revelation 19:7, 8; 21:9; 22:17.
45:8, 9 Myrrh is a fragrant gum of an Arabian tree, generally used in perfumes. Aloes, a spice, may have come from sandalwood, a close-grained and fragrant wood often used for storage boxes or chests (see also Proverbs 7:14-17; Song of Solomon 4:13, 14). Cassia was probably made from flowers of the cinnamon tree. These expensive fragrances were appropriate for a king’s wedding. The location of Ophir is unknown but believed to be in either Arabia or Africa. It was famous as a source of gold.
45:13-17 This beautiful section of poetry pictures Christ’s bride, the church, with the richest blessings as she unites forever with him (see Revelation 19:6-8; 21:2).