Psalm 11 (10):2Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

What is more ineffective than one who is overthrown by his own devices? Moreover, we must note that they do not only assault sinners fortified by divine might with trickery, but they also target the innocent, who have caused them no offense. This truly renders them considerably weak. Just as those who oppose the horn (Acts 9:5) do not harm it but only injure their own feet, so too do they.

There are two plausible interpretations regarding the moon; however, it might be challenging or even impossible for anyone to definitively ascertain which view is correct. When we examine the source of the moon's illumination, some assert that it possesses light of its own, despite its globe being partially illuminated and partially shadowed. As it orbits, the illuminated portion gradually turns toward the earth for visibility, making its initial appearances akin to that of a crescent. In this allegorical interpretation, the moon represents the Church, as it is bright in its spiritual essence but dark in its carnal aspect. At times, the spiritual side is evident through good deeds, while at others, it is hidden within the conscience and known only to God, observable by humanity only in the physical body. Alternatively, the moon could also symbolize the Church because it does not emit light independently but is radiated by the only-begotten Son of God, who is often metaphorically described in Scripture as the Sun. Some heretics, lacking understanding, seek to divert minds toward the earthly, visible sun, which represents the ordinary light for humanity, thus leading some astray, so that until they can grasp the inner illumination of truth, they remain unsatisfied with the simple, universal faith, which is the sole refuge for spiritual newborns, allowing them to gain strength and progress to deeper sustenance. No matter which interpretation holds true, the moon can aptly symbolize the Church. In facing such complexities that are often more burdensome than enlightening, we need not seek obscure explanations but simply observe the moon with ordinary sight, acknowledging its growth, fullness, and decline, representing the Church's image for all, in which the resurrection of the dead is believed.

Next, we must inquire what is intended by the dark moon in this psalm, wherein the wicked aim to strike at the pure in heart. The moon's obscurity can be understood in various contexts: whether its monthly cycle has ended, its brightness is hidden by clouds, or it is diminished by the brightness of a full moon. Here, we might first consider the persecutors of the martyrs, seeking to strike the righteous with their arrows when the moon is dark. This could refer to the early days of the Church when it had yet to shine forth in glory and had not yet conquered the shadows of paganism, or to the blasphemers and slanderers who, in a time of metaphorical darkness, obscured the visibility of the Church. Additionally, during the martyrdoms, with blood spilled in such great excess akin to an eclipse, the weak may have hesitated to embrace the Christian name; terrified, the unrighteous hurled wicked and sacrilegious phrases, attempting to lead astray even the pure in heart. Furthermore, we might consider the sinners within the Church, who, recognizing the moon's obscurity, committed numerous transgressions, yet which are derisively pointed out by heretics, attributing them to their founders. Regardless, considering past misdeeds done under the dark moon, now that the universal Church is honored globally, I see no reason to be troubled by the unknown. For in the Lord I trust, and I will not heed those who tell my soul, ‘Flee like a sparrow to the mountains.’ Indeed, the wicked have drawn their bows to target the righteous of heart under this dark moon. Even today, if the moon seems dim to some, desiring to obscure the identification of the Catholic Church, and attempting to reprove her for the shortcomings of numerous carnal individuals within her, what concern is it to one who maintains the truth, ‘In the Lord I trust?’ With this affirmation, each person reveals themselves as wheat, enduring the chaff until the time of separation.

Therefore, I place my faith in the Lord. Let those who rely on mere mortals be fearful, aware that they are aligned with the man to whom they swear by his gray hairs; furthermore, if asked of which community they belong and they do not identify as his followers, they cannot be acknowledged. You could argue that it is written, ‘You will know them by their fruits’ (Matthew 7:16). Yet I witness astonishing acts; the daily violence of the Circumcellions, led by bishops and presbyters, causing chaos and carrying their menacing clubs, an event witnessed daily by the living. The epoch of Macarius, which they reference with dread, few experienced, and none can see today. But any steadfast Catholic who did witness it could affirm, if they desired to serve God: Lord, I believe.

They have committed themselves to bring harm to us, the innocent, who carry no deceit within our souls. The phrase "to shoot in gloom," which is rendered in Greek as η σκοτομηνη, a moonless night, suggests that the one struck under such conditions cannot ascertain the identity of their attacker. Additionally, we might infer the absence of the comparative phrases "as if" or "like as," implying that the full interpretation of this passage indicates that the enemies of the righteous, blinded by their animosity, fail to recognize that they are attempting to harm their benefactor—aiming their weapons at a friend.

The term "sinners" should be understood as referring to those who are wicked and unrighteous. The imagery of the bow and arrow can symbolize all lethal and murderous implements, along with the assaults of foolish thoughts. Therefore, the other phrases in the Psalm can also be interpreted in a more elevated and ethical context.

In verses 2 and 3, the reasons for his friends' counsel become apparent: the wicked, embodied by Saul and his followers, are intent on bringing about David's death. The dangers are insidious and cloaked in darkness, as highlighted in the text, for it is clear that all David’s actions have been honorable, stemming solely from his personal integrity rather than divine disfavor. David's attempts to find a peaceful resolution with Saul are acknowledged; yet, facing such hostility and knowing that righteousness is on his side, fleeing appears to be the only option (v. 3) suggests a future-oriented perspective: what can he do? Nevertheless, David chooses to disregard their counsel, affirming to his friends that he will not run away but will place his hope in the Almighty, who rules from heaven, seated on the throne, fully aware of all that transpires on earth (the temple signifies heaven, not merely Zion). He is all-knowing (vv. 5-6).

The mention of eyelids instead of eyes reflects the common practice of narrowing one's eyelids for better focus and sight. To "examine strictly" aptly describes seeking divine judgment from a righteous God. It is from Him, not through flight, that David expects assistance; He understands the righteousness of David's cause and will come forth to judge on his behalf (v. 7). The nets serve as snares for the wicked, illustrating how the punishment of the unrighteous descends from above like abundant rain. The destructive fires referenced might evoke images of divine retribution, as noted in Genesis 19:24. The tempestuous and ruinous forces are seen as agents of devastation that harm both humans and animals. Additionally, the mention of a cup relates to the practice during mealtime where a portion of wine is separated for each guest, symbolizing fate or an ordained lot.