Psalm 146 (145):2Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In the previous psalm, the prophet expressed his commitment with the words, “every day I will bless Thee” (Psalm 144:2). Similarly, in this instance, it is proclaimed, “I will sing unto my God, even unto me.”

A soul seeks to glorify God, expressing inwardly, "Praise the Lord, O my soul" (Psalm 144:1). In times of struggle and temptation throughout this earthly existence, our souls may find themselves distressed, a condition the psalmist acknowledges in another passage. Yet, in an effort to alleviate this unease, he offers the promise of joy—not fully realized, but anticipated through hope; he reassures himself in times of trouble, saying, "Hope in God, for I will yet praise him" (Psalm 42:5).

But who is it that speaks, and to whom is this addressed? We may ponder, brethren: does the physical self utter, "Praise the Lord, my soul"? Can it truly counsel the soul effectively? Although the flesh can be subdued and serve as a servant through the power granted by the Lord, it remains subordinate in its nature. The body, being simply that—body—holds lesser value compared to the soul; even the most wretched of souls surpasses the finest of bodies in excellence. This should not surprise us; even the most flawed soul has a superiority that is inherent—not based on accomplishments but on its spiritual essence. Consider this: although the soul may be marred by sinful inclinations, it remains, like tarnished gold, more noble than polished lead. Reflect, then, on creation, and you will find it is not extraordinary to assert that even the most sinful soul possesses greater merit than a highly regarded body.

We can distinguish between two entities: the soul and the body. I find fault with the soul for its sin, yet commend the body for its vitality. In my assessments, I critique the soul while celebrating its worth, and similarly, I either elevate or critique the body. Should you inquire which merits favor—my criticism or praise—a curious answer awaits you. You may metaphorically discuss better horses and lesser men, yet you still favor the horse, which you extol. The essence of the soul is inherently superior to that of the body; it is a spiritual and incorporeal reality, akin to God's own essence. The soul's invisibility aids its dominion over the body; it directs its movements, manages senses, formulates thoughts, takes action, and comprehends countless images. In short, dear brethren, who possesses enough praise for the soul? Yet, we are graced that even amidst turmoil, it declares, "Praise the Lord, my soul."

It is not the flesh that makes this proclamation. Although the body might reflect angelic qualities, it is inferior to the soul, incapable of advising it. When the flesh is fully obedient, it becomes the soul's servant: the soul commands while the body follows, the soul directs while the body acts; hence, how can the flesh provide guidance to the soul? Might it be that the soul speaks to itself, urging and questioning its own state? Due to certain desires, the soul may waver on one hand; yet, on the other hand, through reason—the faculty by which it contemplates—imbued with affection for God, it perceives that some lower impulses lead it to dwell externally, drawing it away from God. Thus, it remembers to redirect itself inwardly, from the external to the internal, from the mundane to the sublime, proclaiming, "Praise the Lord, my soul."

The soul advises itself through the illumination of God, utilizing its rational mind to grasp the wisdom inherent in the eternal nature of its Creator. It discerns aspects worthy of fear, admiration, love, longing, and pursuit, akin to being entranced by brightness, unable to remain in its radiance. Eventually, it regains focus, saying, "Praise the Lord, my soul." The soul, feeling burdened and struggling to rise appropriately, affirms, "I will praise the Lord during my days" (Psalm 145:2). What is meant by "in my days"? It is a reflection of my current state of death, so motivate yourself first and declare, "Praise the Lord, my soul." Your soul replies, "I will praise as best as I can, though feebly." Why this frailty? Because while we inhabit the body, we are separated from the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6).

"In my days." What does that signify? It may respond, "My departure." What leads to this ‘departure’? Our separation from the Lord. If remaining close to Him constitutes life, then separation signifies death. But what, then, is your consolation? Hope. You thrive in hope; with hope, you shall offer praise and song. Your death stems from the grief of this existence; you are sustained by the hope of eternal life that awaits. How will you extol your Lord? "I will sing to my God as long as I exist." What is meant by singing to my God for as long as I live? Observe, brethren, this existence—where eternal praise correlates with eternal life. Now you exist—will you not sing to God while you yet breathe? Look closely; have you not relinquished your praise for other pursuits? You exist without expressing praise, driven by desire for something else, occasionally offending His ear while merely existing.

What value is there in singing while existing? But what is meant by existing? Does existence have a conclusion? Rather, this existence will persist eternally, truly enduring. Anything with a termination in time, however prolonged, cannot be called everlasting.

"Do not place your trust in princes" (Psalm 145:3). Beloved brethren, this serves as a profound call; it reverberates from heaven above. For through human weakness, the soul often succumbs to despair during trials, choosing reliance on mankind. When we advise someone in distress, "There is a great man who can save you; he is joyful, exalted," they may respond positively. But should we plead, "May God deliver you," their spirit often lowers in desolation. They celebrate the promise of mortal aid while growing disheartened at the assurance of divine assistance. Cursed are these thoughts—they stray far from the truth; indeed, they are laden with sorrow. Take heed, begin to thirst, seek and acknowledge the One who created you; He will not abandon His creation unless it forsakes Him.

His breath departs, and he returns to dust; on that day, all his plans perish (Psalm 145:4). Where is the arrogance? Where is the pride? Perhaps he has a good end—if indeed he has one. For I know not where such one has journeyed. Their past boasts are empty, for I have seen that the journey of the wicked is grim. "I saw a wicked man exalted, towering above the cedars of Lebanon; I passed by, and he was no more; I sought him, but there was no trace." The righteous, who passed by without encountering the wicked, reached a realm where the wicked are absent. Hence, brethren, heed these truths: in whatever trial, regardless of pursuit for the heavenly gift, do not place your trust in princes or in humanity, for in them lies no salvation. All that is mortal is fleeting and transitory.

What shall we do if we lack trust in humanity or earthly rulers? "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob" (Psalm 145:5); not this or that man, nor this angel or that. The blessed one finds refuge in the God of Jacob, who was such a magnificent support to Jacob that He transformed him into Israel. O mighty Helper, now Israel is he who beholds God. As you wander without clarity, if you have the God of Jacob as your support, you too shall become Israel and witness God, collapsing all labor and anguish, while joyful praises will reign supreme. Blessed is he whose Helper is the God of Jacob. Why such happiness? Because even amid suffering in this life, he holds fast to God as his hope.

Who is this Lord, his God? For us, there is one God the Father, from whom all things flow, and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom all things exist (1 Corinthians 8:6). Let Him be your hope—let Him be your God. Others may place hope in gods of this world, be it Saturn, Neptune, or even of their own desires, as it is said, "whose god is their belly" (Philippians 3:19). Each belongs to their respective deity. Who is the truly blessed one? His hope is in the Lord his God. Who is He? The Maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything within them (Psalm 144:6).

My brethren, we serve a mighty God; let us bless His holy name for choosing us as His own. While we do not yet see God in His entirety, we struggle to fully love what we cannot fully see. Everything visible, He created. You are in awe of the world—why not the Creator Himself? You behold the heavens and exclaim wonder; you survey the earth and tremble; do you think you can grasp the vastness of the sea? Consider the countless stars, the diverse seeds, the myriad animals—everything that swims, crawls, or flies—all are magnificent marvels. Understand that the One who fashioned all these creations is your God. Place your trust in Him, and you shall find happiness. His hope is in the Lord your God.

Take note, my brethren, God is a powerful and benevolent God, the one who crafted all things. If He only mentioned His creation of the heavens, the earth, and the sea, you may think, "Surely, He regards these vast things more than me." But remember, "He created you." How so? While you are neither sky, earth, nor sea, you do exist upon the earth. Accept that you dwell here. Additionally, God did not merely create the world’s wonders; He encapsulated all living beings within His providence.

It would be insufficient to say He only cares for humans while neglecting the sparrows, locusts, or worms; consider that each life is precious. His provision extends far beyond the commandments He's given to humanity. God’s love and guidance encompasses all creation, despite what some might say. God’s promises are confirmed across both testaments—He seeks your heart and needs it no less than the care and grace He bestows upon cattle (1 Corinthians 9:9).

Does not our Lord emphasize the value of creation? "Observe the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap, nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father provides for them" (Matthew 6:26). Thus, apart from humanity, God ensures the sustenance of these creatures, which need no law for guidance. Regarding creation, sustenance, oversight, and sovereign rule, all pertain to God. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And yet, not one falls to the ground apart from the will of your Father; how much more valuable are you than they? (Matthew 10:29).

You might question whether God counts you among these faces. Then recall the magnificent assertion that the very hairs of your head are numbered (Matthew 10:30).

Who possesses eternal truth? What is that truth, and where is it forever safeguarded? Who conducts justice for the oppressed (Psalm 145:7)? He takes vengeance on those wrongfully afflicted. The apostle speaks to you, urging, "Therefore, since every one of you carries guilt, why not rather accept unjust suffering?" (1 Corinthians 6:7). He beckons you to endure, rather than to cause strife; for not all suffering is ill-intended. What you endure lawfully need not be deemed evil. Reflect on whether your suffering stems from unjust actions.

Criminals may face numerous trials, yet they suffer no real detriment. Wicked individuals, wrongdoers, thieves—each experiences hardship, but none reflects true suffering. There’s a distinction between being wronged and merely facing trials, chastisement, or punishment. Ponder your circumstances; assess your actions, and discern the reasons behind your suffering. Understand the difference between right and wrong. Rightness is synonymous with justice; not everything labeled ‘right’ is so.

When confronted with injustice, know this: It is unjust to label what is wrong as right. That is correct, as is the idea of accountability. Consider your deeds rather than your sufferings. If you have done right and yet face wrong, remember: if you’ve acted wrongly, you must bear the consequences.

"Who provides nourishment to the hungry?" Indeed, I expect little from you: God feeds the hungry. Who then are the hungry? All of humanity. What does "all" imply? Every living being, every person; He provides sustenance for them all, as He also reserves special care for His beloved. If they face another type of hunger, He provides accordingly.

Have you, dear brother, taken on the role of a psalmist before God? Let your mouth proclaim the word of the Lord, as it is written, ‘I will sing to my God, just as I am.’ Be cautious not to allow distractions to invade your thoughts due to carelessness. After lifting your voice in spiritual song, remember to also engage your mind in worship (1 Cor. 14:15).

‘I will exalt the Lord throughout my days.’ Reflect on this statement: she encourages and answers herself. What does she declare? She says, ‘Praise the Lord, my soul.’ I respond with the same affirmation: ‘I will exalt the Lord throughout my days’ (Psalm 145:2). In my current state, burdened by sin, I find it difficult to offer praise. Every time I attempt to vocalize my praise to God, the awareness of my sins overshadows it. Yet, I will exalt the Lord throughout my days. It is beautifully expressed as ‘I will exalt,’ rather than simply ‘exalt.’ When I stand in the presence of my Lord, I will give Him praise in my life. Presently, I navigate through the valley of death and am unable to rejoice. I will exalt Him in my life. Our true life is found in Christ: let us glorify the Lord in Life.

In Psalm 6, the prophet declares, ‘There is no one in death who remembers You, but in hell who will confess to You (Psalm 6:6).’ Thus, we should strive to offer praises to God throughout our lives, until we reach the conclusion of our earthly journey.

The declaration, I will sing to my God for as long as I have life in this world, serves as an interpretation of the phrase, I will honor my Lord throughout my existence; thus, both convey a similar sentiment. According to Eusebius, either the spirit (the essence within David) directs the soul, or the soul governs itself, or, more appropriately, the prophet inspires his soul to exalt God. In response to this inspiration, the soul willingly proclaims, I will honor the Lord throughout my life. Given that the soul is eternal, it continues to exist beyond the liberation from the physical form. Consequently, the assertion is made, I will never stop praising the Lord; rather, for the entirety of my eternal existence, through countless ages, I will continuously honor Him.

The origin of the inscription ‘Haggai and Zechariah’ remains uncertain, whether it dates back to the LXX or was added later. Nonetheless, it is clear that this psalm was composed during the era of these two prophets. Some scholars suggest it was penned after the temple's construction; however, based on verses 7-9, we may deduce that it arose during a time when Israel's situation was disheartening, even after being freed from exile. Thus, it is more plausible that it was written during the halt in the temple's construction.

Alleluia, a hymn of joyous adoration for the Divine, is inspired by this psalm of David, filled with delight and cheer, which the prophets Haggai and Zechariah urged the sons of Israel to sing joyfully, recalling their return from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. It represents the joy associated with the restoration of the new people, who, through the grace of our Lord Christ, have been liberated from the bondage of sinful Babylon and ushered into the liberty of the heavenly Jerusalem, for the everlasting glory of God. In this psalm, the prophet teaches all to place their trust in God alone and not in humanity: "cursed is the man who trusts in man" (Jeremiah 17:5). Our praise to God should come from the soul, for the soul transcends the body; without the soul, the body is lifeless.

Psalm 145, which serves as the second Sunday antiphon, conveys the message that our trust should not be placed in earthly rulers or mere mortals, but rather in the Lord, who is omnipotent, perfectly good, and unfailingly faithful. The psalm, as indicated in its heading, was composed during the era of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, shortly after the Babylonian exile. At that time, the Persian kings, who held power over the Jewish people, acted as supporters but also impeded their attempts to restore Jerusalem's walls and the temple due to the criticisms they faced. This situation illuminated for the Jews the unreliability of human assistance, guiding them to place their faith solely in the Lord God.