Psalm 10 (9):1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The prophet speaks for those who suffer, pleading with God without casting blame. Many among the afflicted, driven by their anguish, seek judgment prematurely, much like those who are sick request the doctor to abandon them before their treatment is fully complete. They often desire what is detrimental, unable to endure their suffering, and they cry out to their healers, expressing, "You have tormented me, you have caused my downfall, you have brought me to death." Yet, these expressions arise from distress rather than sound reasoning. Similarly, many who are timid falter during times of trial, unable to withstand adversity. Sophonias expresses comparable sentiments (Sophonias 3:1). However, this was in the old covenant, where only moderate efforts were expected; in the new covenant, such responsiveness is inconsistent with wisdom.

The inquirer, as if experiencing a moment of clarity or perhaps posing the question to impart understanding, states: You disregard both time and suffering, meaning you ignore the present moment and allow trials to stir the hearts of people to yearn for your return. For this wellspring of life is more delightful to those who are deeply parched.

He intercedes for the acceleration of the Gentiles' calling, which will occur after an extended period. However, this is influenced by the pride of the adversary.

Since there is a lack of defense for those who suffer offense, it appears, O Lord, that You are distant and do not regard the deeds of humanity. Yet those who are wronged, as if touched by a certain flame, become weary while witnessing the pride of the offenders. The Prophet conveys the notion of being consumed, indicating they are akin to a fire engulfed in flames, emitting sighs akin to smoke from their mouths. The Prophet also asserts that their cowardice will lead to their own downfall; for they are not motivated by thoughts of glory but rather are plagued by doubts about Your Providence. This is reflected in the phrase that they falter in the convictions they hold. To elaborate on this, the Prophet states: “For the wicked boasts in the lust of his soul; the covetous man pleases himself.”

Psalm 10 in Hebrews

Why, O Lord, do You seem distant? The prophet begins to reflect on God's providence, noting that the wicked thrive while the righteous struggle in their efforts. He poses a question to God concerning this situation: Why, O Lord, have You allowed these individuals to endure whatever adversities they face? This expression is metaphorical, drawn from those who are physically far away and indifferent to those they have left behind. Do You disregard the suffering of the righteous during times of prosperity? To disregard means to position one’s gaze such that it overlooks the object right in front, looking instead at what lies above it. Why, then, O Lord, do You, Who are ever-present, appear distant from the righteous due to Your patience?

Assistance from a Distance Reflecting on the plight of the afflicted, the psalmist speaks to the Lord with a sense of human frailty: Why, O Lord, do You seem far away? This does not imply that the One who is always present has abandoned His position or relocated, but rather that He appears distant because He takes His time to offer aid. We often see ourselves as deserving of disdain if we are momentarily delayed, yet He demonstrates far greater compassion when He provides us solace through His remarkable forbearance.

This marks the beginning of the second section of the psalm, which features a supplication against the dominion of wicked individuals. In modern practice, Hebrews initiate Psalm 10 at this point, thus splitting what is originally a single psalm into two parts. However, interpreters traditionally view this psalm as an indivisible whole, suggesting that the current division may have been introduced later, as this segment appears distinct from the earlier portion. In the first segment, the Church celebrates the triumph over its adversaries, whereas this section is characterized by lament over their seemingly prosperous outcomes. Yet, the themes are not as divergent as they might seem, as the times prophesied by David encompass both experiences.

Certainly, it may seem that God is distant from the faithful, as He displays patience towards those who act unjustly. He refrains from swift retribution against the upright, choosing instead to encourage them towards repentance. During the general Resurrection, the righteous will be rewarded in accordance with their deeds and faithfulness, and their radiance will surpass that of the sun, moon, and stars. In the Heavenly Jerusalem, the first to ascend will be the Mother of God, followed by John the Baptist, the twelve apostles, the seventy disciples, and then all the righteous in their respective groups.