There brake he the arrows of the bow - That is, in Salem, or near Salem. The language is such as would be used in reference to invaders, or to armies that came up to storm the city. The occasion is unknown; but the meaning is, that God drove the invading army back, and showed his power in defending the city. The phrase “the arrows of the bow,” is literally, “the lightnings of the bow,” the word rendered “arrows” meaning properly “flame;” and then, “lightning.” The idea is, that the arrows sped from the bow with the rapidity of lightning.
The shield - Used for defense in war. See Psalms 5:12; Psalms 33:20; compare the notes at Ephesians 6:16.
And the sword - That is, he disarmed his enemies, or made them as powerless as if their swords were broken.
And the battle - He broke the force of the battle; the strength of the armies drawn up for conflict.