Psalm 34 (33):12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

There are those who are completely unaware of the existence of the Scriptures. Consequently, we find ourselves lacking in meaningful guidance and practical wisdom. Just as one must study the principles of warfare to learn the art of combat, so too must one dedicate effort to mastering any craft, whether it be architecture or any other skill. Yet in our case, there appears to be little effort invested in understanding this vital knowledge, which surely demands careful study. To illustrate that this knowledge indeed requires diligence, listen to the prophet's words: ‘Come, children, hear me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.’ Thus, the fear of the Lord necessitates serious study. Are you aware of which prophet or senior elder or apostle or evangelist spoke these words? I believe that only a few possess this knowledge, and even among them, knowing references from other contexts is similarly scarce. Let me express this same idea in alternative phrases: ‘Wash yourselves, be clean; remove your evil deeds from my presence; cease to do evil, learn to do good, seek justice’ (Isaiah 1:16-17), ‘Guard your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. Turn away from evil and do good.’ Do you recognize that virtue requires careful learning? One proclaims, ‘I will instruct you in the fear of the Lord,’ while the other advises, ‘learn to do good.’ Are you familiar with the sources of these sayings? I doubt that many are aware, aside from a select few. Nevertheless, the Scriptures are read to you multiple times each week. The reader announces the author—whether a prophet, apostle, or evangelist—prior to sharing their words, so that you can recognize and comprehend both the message and the context in which it was delivered. Yet all of this is in vain; your fervor is chiefly directed toward temporal matters, leaving little room for spiritual pursuits. This is why those worldly endeavors often fall short of your desires and are fraught with challenges. Christ stated: ‘But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you’ (Matthew 6:33). He indicates that all other things will follow as a supplement. Yet we have inverted this order, chasing after earthly possessions under the illusion that heavenly treasures will be granted as an afterthought. Thus, we end up lacking in both. One day, we will gain wisdom and strive toward eternal blessings, and then all other things will be bestowed upon us. It is inconceivable that one who seeks the divine will not also be granted earthly blessings; this is the essence of truth itself. Therefore, let us not stray from this path but adhere to Christ's command so that we do not forfeit everything; for God Himself can transform our brokenness and lead us to wholeness through Christ Jesus our Lord, to whom be glory, dominion, honor, and worship with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

"The fear of the Lord," he proclaims, "I will teach you." He has already instructed us to fear the Lord and revealed the blessings that come from this reverent fear, asserting that "no harm can befall those who fear Him." Now, he presents us with insights regarding the fear of the Lord. Anyone can claim that good health is essential, but understanding how to achieve it requires knowledge from a skilled physician. Not every type of fear is beneficial and redemptive; there is a fear of the adversary that the Psalmist prays would not draw near, saying, "Deliver my soul from the fear of the enemy" (Psalm 63:2). This adversarial fear instills within us a dread of death and the threat posed by people. Is someone who harbors such fear truly capable of resisting sin even to the point of martyrdom, repaying the debt to the One who died and rose again for us? Furthermore, those who are driven by demons experience this same adversarial fear within themselves. Generally, I view such fear as weakness born of unbelief, for one who trusts in a mighty Helper should not be afraid of those who seek to unsettle him. What, then, distinguishes saving fear—the sanctifying fear that resides calmly within the soul rather than being induced by weakness? Would you like me to elucidate the characteristics of this fear? When you are tempted to sin, vividly imagine the fearsome and inescapable judgment of Christ, where the Judge occupies a high and exalted throne, causing all creation to tremble at His glorious presence, as each individual is assessed by their life’s actions. For those who have committed many wrongs, fearsome and sullen angels will be assigned to them, their eyes blazing and their breath like fire due to their fierce will, with dark faces reflecting their gloom and animosity towards humanity. Then will come an unfathomable abyss, impenetrable darkness, and an unquenchable flame that, despite its burning energy, offers no light; followed by a relentless, insatiable worm that devours greedily, inflicting unbearable suffering through its perpetual hunger; and finally, the most severe torment—everlasting shame and disgrace. Fear these judgments, and allow this fear to act as a bridle, guiding your soul away from wicked desires. Our father has pledged to teach us this fear of the Lord, but not impart it to everyone. Rather, it is meant for those willing to heed his call—those striving for salvation, not for the "strangers from the covenant" (Eph. 2:12), but for those who, through the baptism of sonship, are conformed to the Word. Therefore, he invites, "Come," meaning approach me through righteous deeds, children who have received the honor of being called children of light through the sacrament. "I will teach you the fear of the Lord," that same fear previously described by the Word.

While we strive to emulate David’s devotion, we do not claim to possess such immense grace; instead, we share with you as our children the insights inspired by the Spirit of Wisdom in him (cf. Isaiah 11:2), the revelations bestowed upon us, and the lessons learned from clear examples. We cannot evade the obligation to teach, a responsibility that the priesthood has imposed upon us—perhaps even against our desires; for God has appointed some as apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some as shepherds and teachers (Eph. 4:11; cf. 1 Cor. 12:28).

The Holy Spirit imparts wisdom in Psalm 2:11, saying, "Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling." Furthermore, Psalm 33:12 encourages us to heed His call: "Come, children, listen to Me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord." God promises a heart imbued with His fear to those truly committed to His will, as declared in Jeremiah 32:40: "I will give them My fear in their heart, lest they depart from Me." Thus, the journey toward a profound understanding of God begins with the fear of the Lord.

He advises, “Receive not the spirit of bondage again to fear,” indicating a fear that may be termed “slavish.” This stands in contrast to the “filial” fear, which arises from a loving relationship with God, who is viewed as a benevolent Father. Slavish fear reflects an inner disposition that dreads God's punishment and thus seeks to avoid sin and anything distasteful to Him. In contrast, filial fear embodies a reverent love for God that arises from our desire not to offend Him. The purest form of filial fear, referred to as ‘perfect’ fear, is entirely infused with love and devoid of slavish fear. Conversely, the most minimal experience of slavish fear can be likened to the apprehension of an “evil and lazy” servant (Matthew 25:26), which manifests as a fear of punishment rather than a genuine distaste for sin, often leading one to serve God outwardly while still being internally submissive to sin, as long as they can convince themselves that their sin does not warrant severe consequences.

With these distinctions in place, it becomes clear to interpret the various scriptural references concerning the fear of God within human experience. When the Apostle mentions that “God hath not given us the spirit of fear,” he refers to the fear reminiscent of servitude, distinct from the fear that belongs to sonship, which aligns with the spirit of adoption bestowed upon us. Similarly, when another Apostle states that “perfect love casts out fear,” he again speaks of the fear related to servitude. The fear tied to filial love does not need to be dismissed by love itself, which thrives within that context. Pure elements should not be rejected, and the Scripture notes that “the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever” (Psalm 18:10). To remain solely fixated on fear of punishment would indeed reflect a lowly state for a Christian; the faithful should seek to elevate their fear from being slavish to one that is filial. However, should anyone proclaim, “I prefer to be led by the spirit of sonship and disregard fear,” or, “I will embrace perfect love and abandon fear,” such a stance risks leading one to spiritual downfall. While God has granted the spirit of adoption, He has not instructed us to cease all fear. The beloved disciple of Christ, who embodies perfect love, does not endorse the expulsion of fear from the heart, but rather unveils that true love, once fully realized, organically dispels fear without any effort on our part, potentially only temporarily; because as love dispels fear so that one might bask in grace, humility rekindles fear to ensure that the ennobled do not forget their own unworthiness. If we eliminate fear, what then guides us toward love? The Wise One reminds us that “the fear of the Lord teaches us the paths of love” (Sir. 1:13).

Who offered the gift of divine sonship to humanity? It was none other than the only begotten Son of God, who incarnated for this reason and redeemed us from the shackles of sin, fraught with the dread of death, leading us into the freedom of being God’s children. Did He then absolve us from the necessity of fearing God? Quite the opposite; He emphasized it more profoundly than any of His followers. “Do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him” (Luke 12:4-5). Thus, it is unsurprising that Saint Paul, who understood and proclaimed perfect love, would still instruct us to serve God “with fear.” It is paramount that we prioritize the practice of this command over merely contemplating it. The action itself expresses its dignity, strength, and goodness far more than theoretical understanding. If the fear of God motivates you to serve Him within the sacred space, it will draw you nearer to His presence; it will sharpen your focus on His Word, open your heart to receive the grace of the Holy Mysteries, prevent your thoughts and gaze from straying from the heavens from which you seek help, and protect your communion with God from trivial conversations with others. When the fear of God accompanies you beyond the temple into your home and social settings, it will serve as a vigilant protector against perilous situations, construct a sturdy defense against adversities, and humbly intercede for great blessings.

Should you fear the allure of sin? Know that “the fear of the Lord drives away sins” (Sir. 1:21). Are you in pursuit of wisdom? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 1:7); and it does not merely signify the beginning but represents its fulfillment as well, for “to fear the Lord is the fulfillment of wisdom” (Sir. 1:16). Are you confronted with distress or death? Know that “he who fears the Lord shall not fear, nor be dismayed; He shall be his hope” (Sir. 34:14). “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, enabling one to evade the snares of death” (Proverbs 14:27). “Who is the man that fears the Lord?” The Prophet seeks an answer earnestly, like one eager to announce joyful tidings; “He shall direct him in the right way, and his wish will come to fruition. His soul will flourish in goodness, and his offspring will inherit the earth. The secrets of the Lord are with those who fear Him, and His covenant will be made known to them” (Psalm 24:12-14). Only by embracing the fear of God can noble endeavors be justifiable, hope remain steadfast, and joy be secure. This is why we are instructed to “Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). Even those who are saints are encouraged: “Fear the Lord, you His saints” (Psalm 33:10). If you hesitate to claim that title for yourselves, “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12), “perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). Amen.

This is why Paul referred to the Galatians, who had strayed from foundational teachings and resembled an unborn child, as children once more for receiving the truth and manifesting Christ within them. He lamented, My children, of whom I am in labor again until Christ be formed in you (Galatians 4:19). Come, and listen. ‘What lesson does our spiritual father (Basil the Great) wish to impart? He indicates that I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Having previously commanded us to revere the Lord and demonstrated the benefits of such reverence, stating that those who fear Him suffer no hardship, he now teaches us a vital lesson on the fear of God. The fear of God is foundational; it is not merely suggested but demands our focused attention, as he calls, Come and hear. The importance of the fear of God is indeed paramount; even children today understand this, having learned from the Wise One who asserts that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). This wisdom encompasses both practical and contemplative aspects. By stating it is the beginning, Basil reminds us that we must start with it, as all else will naturally follow. Without the fear of God, gaining wisdom, discernment, or goodness is impossible. In this lies the key to all things. This is the singular teaching platform in the world that, while addressing one subject, illuminates all subjects!’

When the holy Prophet says, ‘Come, I will teach,’ he implies his own mastery of this knowledge. No teacher would presume to lecture on a subject they do not comprehend. ‘Anyone can assert the necessity of health, even one with no knowledge; however, understanding how to achieve it requires someone trained in the medical arts. Similarly, only one who genuinely possesses the fear of God can impart this understanding.’ Herein lies a profound lesson for parents, educators, and mentors—‘Children! Teach them first and foremost to revere God, instructing them through both word and example. What can such individuals expect, especially when they fail to embrace this teaching, instead demonstrating a fearless lifestyle or speaking contrary to this principle?’ The Holy Prophet presents the doctrine of the fear of the Lord, which is essential to salvation. We must recognize that not all fear is beneficial or redemptive. ‘There exists the fear of adversaries (Basil the Great), which the Prophet beseeches should not draw near, stating, ‘From the fear of the enemy cast out my soul’ (Psalm 63:2). This fear instills dread of death and causes us to regard the power of others with trepidation. Can one who is governed by such fear stand firm against sin in the face of martyrdom and fulfill their debt to the Lord who died and rose for us? Additionally, there exists an indefinable fear driven by demons, a form of weakness resulting from disbelief; for one who has faith in a strong Helper is not intimidated by those seeking to undermine him.’

‘What constitutes (Basil the Great) this salvific fear—the fear that sanctifies and resides intentionally within the soul, rather than stemming from weakness? Shall I elucidate its characteristics? When faced with temptation, envision in your mind the dreadful and inescapable judgment of Christ, where He sits enthroned majestically, causing all creation to tremble at His glorious presence. Each soul stands in judgment for their deeds throughout life; for those weighed down by many sins, terrifying angels are invoked, their fiery eyes and breath fueled by their malevolent intent, shrouded in darkness and hatred toward mankind. This is underscored by an immeasurable abyss, profound darkness, a fire devoid of light yet brimming with destructive power, along with relentless, insatiable worms inflicting unending torment and ignoble anguish. Let the fear of such consequences steer you, like a bridle curbing your soul's inclinations towards wrongdoing.’ The Father pledges to impart the fear of God, but ‘not to all, only to those who are willing to listen. You who possess hearts eager to learn and open ears, children of simple faith who have become God’s children through baptism and have been honored to walk as sons of light because of His sacrifice. The Prophet speaks not from his school, but from the school of the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of the Sovereign, who grants us the right to become children of God, speaks through the Prophet’s voice, as he himself declared: ‘The Spirit of the Lord speaks in me, and His word is on my tongue (2 Sam. 23:2).’ ‘So come, then (Blessed Augustine), let us listen to Him! Let us open our ears and our hearts. Let it not be that our ears are open but our hearts remain closed. God speaks through the Prophet. Who would not want to hear Him?’