Psalm 34 (33):6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The sun rises, yet not for the gazelles and other nocturnal creatures that find sustenance in the dark; similarly, though the light itself is radiant and all-encompassing, not all are connected to its brilliance. As it is written, 'everyone who does evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds be exposed' (John 3:20). Therefore, 'come unto Him, and be enlightened, and your faces shall not be ashamed.' Blessed is the one who, on the day of God's Righteous Judgment, when 'the Lord will come' in the light 'to bring to light the hidden things' and 'to declare the counsels of the heart' (cf. 1 Cor. 4:5), dares to enter this revealing light, returning unashamed because his conscience remains untainted by wicked actions. Those who have acted wickedly, however, will rise to face shame and disgrace as they behold the vile imprint of their sins. Perhaps more frightening than darkness and eternal flames is the enduring shame with which sinners will be marked, forever bearing the weight of their transgressions in their memories, like an indelible stain upon their souls. Yet few can approach the light of truth and reveal it, and having unveiled the hidden realities, depart with faces unashamed.

The great Basil warns that perhaps the worst fate for sinners is the everlasting shame they endure, constantly haunted by the memories of their carnal sins, which cling to their minds as if marked by some indelible ink. Theodoret adds that those who approach God in faith receive rays of mental light, similar to how Moses was transformed by the glory reflected on his face. This is what David prophesied: The light of your face, O Lord, has shone upon us.

I refrain from labeling Him simply as the greatest Wise One, for that title is inadequate for the One I have in mind—the embodiment of Wisdom and the sole Source of all understanding, in whom ‘all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden’ (Col. 2:3). He has come among us, not merely as a visitor, but as a permanent guest, initiating a school that no one else could have established before or will after Him. This school is elevated enough for the highest intellects while remaining accessible for the humblest souls, aiming not to accumulate degrees, but to invite all nations to be mere ‘students.’ Though initially unappealing in its foundational lessons, it has transformed the ancient world of scholarship in its unique way. In this school, it is possible to examine subjects deserving of basic curiosity while honoring the respected sciences.

It offers teachings rooted in life—not the philosophy shaped by worldly elements, which ultimately lead to trivial pursuits, but through the vital and life-giving wisdom of God, concealed in mystery, which He prepared for our glory before time (1 Corinthians 2:7). This involves the contemplation of the Supreme Unity expressed in the consubstantial Trinity and the Trinity in Unity as the true foundation of all existence—the immeasurable source of everything that can be measured. It engages with knowledge of both earth and heaven: not the burdensome understanding that digs into the earth’s depths for answers among ruins, nor the superficial understanding of heaven that merely traces star paths without revealing the way to true elevation, but a knowledge that recognizes the goodness of creation, its subsequent curse due to human sin, and the promise of a ‘new heaven and a new earth’ where truth abides (2 Peter 3:13).

Legislation comes, not from antiquated Greek and Roman texts whose relevance has waned with time, but from the divine authority of the King of heaven and earth, who governs His eternal kingdom and desires to establish His reign within us, should we earnestly wish to be part of it. This divine legislation is akin to a healing balm for souls, providing remedies not only for spiritual maladies but also for resurrection from spiritual death, revealing not mere dreams, but the authentic, restorative essence—the Flesh and Blood of the God-Man, the true beginning of a higher existence, the Grace of the Holy Spirit. Should not these subjects be engaging? Is not our singular Teacher worthy of earnest attention and devotion?

What hinders us from learning from Him? In fact, how inviting and accessible His call is! ‘Come unto Him, and ye shall be enlightened’ (Psalm 33:6). These words, prompting enlightenment, belong to the venerable David, a king and prophet. Let us expand his invitation: ‘I will seek the Lord, and He will answer me, and deliver me from all my troubles; come unto Him, and ye shall be enlightened, and your faces shall not be ashamed’ (Psalm 33:5-6).

To grasp this more fully, one must recall that the ancients deemed it impossible to behold God, a notion confirmed by God Himself when He stated to Moses, ‘Thou shalt not be able to see My face; for man shall not see My face and live’ (Exodus 33:20). Therefore, is it not striking that the psalmist invites us to approach the Lord directly for enlightenment? To avoid implying that the prophet was mistaken about God’s nature, we must consider a different aspect of divine knowledge, also present among ancient Hebrews. A thorough examination of their sacred texts reveals that God presented Himself through created forms—angels, men—while retaining His divine authority and actions. Such manifestations, set against the background of God as unseen and inaccessible, reveal a divine plan: the early condescension of the Son of God towards humanity, analogous to the morning sun’s appearance before its full rise.

Thus, David portrays the invisible and unapproachable God as accessible and illuminating. This leads us to recognize that the Prophet calls us to seek enlightenment from the very Lord we know as Jesus Christ. Christ is the Light for both the ancient world and the modern one! The distant past calls us to this very Light! To whom should we now guide seekers of truth if not to this Light? ‘Come unto Him, and ye shall be enlightened.’

Upon examining the context of these prophetic words, we see David combining an invitation to seek the Lord with a personal motivation drawn from his own experiences of distress and subsequent liberation. His many sorrows underscore a profound struggle where, in his search for the Lord, he encountered no immediate relief. It is clear that his journey involved seeking the Lord with a voice born from sorrow, mirroring how a lost traveler cries out for help, and receives an answer from a compassionate One who approaches and resolves his plight. Similarly, as David sought the Lord through heartfelt prayer, the Lord heard him and delivered him from his troubles.

Now, liberated from despair, David, filled with gratitude, desires to share his joy, urging others not just to seek the hidden Lord, but to draw near to Him, promising that ‘you shall be enlightened, and your faces shall not be ashamed.’ This promise suggests that enlightenment comes not only from understanding Christ’s truths but also from the comfort of the Spirit, whose abundant solace transforms earthly grief into sweetness, overshadowing all sorrow.

As we reflect on the Prophet's call for enlightenment, let us acknowledge that it is universal, intended for all who have ears to hear. Have we truly experienced life without tribulation, and do we anticipate a future devoid of suffering? It is unlikely anyone could honestly claim such a position. Let us inquire further: who among us possesses the invulnerability that the wise sage asserts—‘Blessed is the man who does not crawl with his mouth and is free from the agony of sin’ (Sirach 14:1)? Should anyone claim such blessedness, they would swiftly confront the undeniable words of John: ‘If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us’ (1 John 1:8).

If we are honest with ourselves regarding our sinfulness and the sorrow that accompanies it, then I ask all who have sought wisdom and illumination: where is the wisdom that offers comfort amidst the grief of sin? Where is the enlightenment to guide me from the sorrows of existence, particularly those stemming from a guilty conscience? Where is the understanding that can adequately address my condition as a sinner before God? Many have pondered the concept of human happiness throughout time, yet their attempts often failed due to a lack of comprehension about the core issue of sin and divine guilt, focusing instead on transient pleasures without acknowledging the broader implications for the soul.

Who can guide me to enlighten my conscience, that I may no longer bear shame before God or my inner self, which feels the weight of sin? Scholars of divine and earthly law, do you not see that no greater right exists than God’s claim that His creation should not breach His will through action, word, thought, or desire? When one acts contrary to the Sovereign’s rights, they forfeit their privileges, binding themselves instead to the just consequences of their actions. Your wisdom and conscience highlight the shame of the sinner, but can it provide a means of atonement for that shame? Many assert that once an act is committed, it cannot be undone, thus consigning the sinner to perpetual guilt.

Though God’s mercy is often casually referenced, its deepest truths cannot be fully understood through mere rational thought. Yes, God is merciful, yet He is equally just. These two aspects balance perfectly—the promise of mercy should not overshadow the reality of justice. The sinner stands before the righteousness of God; understanding God’s mercy in relation to that divine justice is incomprehensible without revelation. Who will unravel the knots of my doubt? Who will brighten my darkness? Who will sustain my faith in God’s unwavering mercy? Only You, Teacher sent from God, Light of the world, Savior Jesus, whose miraculous entrance into the world and transformative words have enchanted hearts. Your sufferings, wounds, and death on the Cross serve as the ultimate assurance of salvation, providing the light that overcomes ignorance, doubt, and despair.

Regardless of the severity of my heart’s wounds from the sorrow of sin, or the burdens I bear from this earthly life, turning my afflictions to You—the Healer—allows Your resurrecting life to revive what is dying within me. Your divine light eradicates darkness. Your creative Word restores the fallen, mends the ailing, and brings the dead back to life; the comfort of Your Spirit alleviates all sorrows or transforms suffering into joy through communion with Your redemptive suffering. In You, my face is ‘unashamed’ before God the Father and my own conscience, for ‘Thy blood cleanseth my conscience from dead works’ (Heb. 9:14); Your righteousness covers my guilt; Your advocacy grants me confidence before the Father, enabling me to honor Him as my own.

For this reason, I glorify You, O radiant Illuminator, and despite my unworthiness, I urge all, enlightened or not, to ‘draw near to Him’—with reverent hearts, believing spirits, and obedient intentions. Draw near, ‘draw near to Him, and be enlightened, and your faces shall not be ashamed.’ Amen.

Seeking the Lord involves a heartfelt earnestness, similar to the persistent plea of the widow in the parable who continually approached the unjust judge. Whosoever sincerely and consistently seeks Him will be heard. His heart will be assured of the divine favor in prayer, and his sorrowful countenance will shine with assurance. Sorrow and anguish often cloud the heart and mind. The holy Prophet seems to say: you who are overshadowed by grief, approach God with fervent requests, as I have done; and surely, you will be filled with joy and comfort, which will dispel the darkness of sorrow from your heart, so that your faces will not be ashamed in your faith in Him (Euthymius Zigabenus, Anthimus, Patriarch of Jerusalem). 'When anyone suffers any misfortune, contempt, dishonor, or persecution, shame covers his face, Blessed Augustine remarks. Yet the Prophet speaks to those who trust: be not afraid. Approach the Lord, and you shall not be ashamed. When the adversary seems to overpower you and render you ashamed, remember that in God's sight, you are lifted above him, and in due time, God will exalt you above your enemy and erase the shame from your countenance. How did the Jews stand when they tormented the Lord? It seemed as though His face had been shamed and destroyed. The very thing that disgrace the Jews also became their own humiliation. Years later, their city lay in ruins, and they were scattered across the earth. Just as the Lord Himself was not shamed, neither will He permit those who find enlightenment in Him to feel shame. This is the primary thought of this verse. However, out of context, it may take on various applications, which particularly captured the attention of the holy Fathers, who interpreted the Psalms not merely for knowledge, but for spiritual edification. The call, ‘Come unto Him,’ refers to those who have drifted away from Him, becoming enveloped in darkness and shame. Some have become estranged from God through ignorance of Him; others hold belief yet do not practice this faith in their lives; still others, despite a desire to approach God, are uncertain of the proper path to take. To all such persons, the invitation resonates: ‘Come to the Lord and be illuminated, that you may dispel the darkness of shame from your countenance. Come unto the Lord, you who do not know God and His Christ, who wander in the mire of lies and deceit, away from the path of salvation. The Christian, enlightened by the grace of the Holy Spirit, does not wish to keep this good news to himself but beckons all to come to our Lord Jesus Christ (Augustine). The Prophet exhorts those who dwell in the shadows of despair to come to the Lord, to draw near to the light of the Divine, so that through this closeness, illuminated by truth and grace, they may receive His light. Just as tangible light does not shine for everyone but only for those who open their eyes to the sun for unobstructed reception of its rays; so too, the Sun of righteousness (Mal. 4:2), the Light of truth that enlightens every person who enters the world (John 1:9), is not seen by all. Its brilliance is visible only to those who open their spiritual eyes through faith and turn towards the Lord, turning away from all evil and harmful deceptions (Basil the Great). The ability to receive enlightenment is imparted through the holy sacraments. Those converting for the first time from paganism receive it in holy baptism, which is thus known as enlightenment. The feast of the Baptism of the Lord, when the baptism of those turning to Christ was first celebrated, is also referred to as the feast of lights. Hence, Theodoret, Euthymius Zigabenus, and Anthimus, Patriarch of Jerusalem, interpret the invocation ‘come and be enlightened’ as an encouragement for the unbaptized to participate in holy baptism; essentially, come to the Lord Jesus Christ in faith through the Holy Gospel and receive baptism. Holy baptism will purify your souls and illuminate your eyes, thus removing shame from your face by washing away the cause of your shame—your sins. The believer embarks on the path of true communion with the Lord. He must proceed without faltering, without delay, and without sloth. How shall he walk? By faith demonstrated through love. ‘Thy feet,’ Blessed Augustine says, ‘are your love. Be not like a one-legged and lame person.’ What are these two feet? The two commandments of love, toward God and towards your neighbor. With these feet, swiftly approach God and come to Him. He Himself invites all to Him and grants His light so that you may approach Him rightly.’ However, not all do so; some yield to the temptations of passions and stray from the right paths, pulling away from God once more. For them, the light of Christ, which enlightens all, will diminish. ‘Just as the sun (Basil the Great) rises, yet not for non-birds or other creatures, which find their sustenance at night, so too, the radiance of the Divine, though inherently resplendent and illuminating, does not shine upon all. The fault lies not with Him, but in the malign will of the sinful heart. For such individuals, God has provided another avenue for approaching Him—the path of repentance. What darkness is darker than the darkness of sin? And what shame is more disconcerting than the shame of sinfulness? Hence, those ensnared in sin are called to draw near to God in repentance so that they may be illuminated and cleansed from the dark and shameful burden of their sins. Even now, a sin-loving heart can hesitate, feeling ashamed to confess, though confession clears all shame. Everyone who commits wrongdoing despises the light and avoids it, lest his deeds be brought to light (John 3:20). 'Often, the sinner questions: How shall I proceed? I bear such heavy sins; such iniquities weigh on my conscience: how can I dare approach God? How? By humbling myself in repentance. I feel ashamed to perform penance, you say. But if you merely approach, you will be illuminated, and your shame will fade away. The fear of disgrace obstructs you from repentance; yet repentance draws you to God, who wipes away your shame. The mark of shameful guilt is upon your brow; yet come, and the Lord shall remove it. Do you not see that your countenance is clouded with shame, because you have yet to come to the Lord? Humble yourself in repentance, and your shame will vanish, and your face will shine’ (Blessed Augustine). The one who repents approaches the Lord. The path to Him is indeed an inner journey, based in the mind and heart. It is vital to align the thoughts of the mind and the disposition of the heart to ensure that the spirit is always with the Lord, visible to those who approach Him. Such individuals are continually enlightened with inner light, receiving the radiance of spiritual clarity (Theodoret), much like Moses, whose face shone with glory after being in communion with God on the mountain. St. David expresses this in another verse: ‘The light of Thy countenance is upon us, O Lord’ (Psalm 4:7). Prayers infused with understanding, from the heart, facilitate this process. Once they take shape, the clarity of the mind’s eye improves, and the spirit, seeing God with clarity, gains power to vanquish all that could instill shame before God. Meanwhile, many attempt to approach God through outward acts alone. They may act but do not truly draw near, as they fail to walk the correct path. Here lies a call to them: come to God with your mind and heart and be illuminated, and do not let the enemy shame you, who, despite your apparent goodness, continually overcomes and dishonors you in thoughts and feelings. An intelligent and heartfelt approach to God will provide the strength to prevail over all turbulent emotions and to confound the enemy when he seeks to instill shame. Another profoundly uplifting insight derived from this verse by St. Basil the Great is this: come to the Lord seeking His aid, be illuminated with the hope of deliverance, and your countenance will not bear the shame of your hope. This pertains to our present life, which is fraught with hardship and suffering. However, there awaits another life where we must ultimately approach the light that will illuminate our entire being. Oh, may we not be ashamed then! He who comes to the Lord here through faith and repentance, illuminated by good deeds and the purification of the heart from passions, will not be met with shame. Such a person is blessed. On the day of the righteous judgment of God, when the Lord comes in His brilliant light to reveal hidden darkness and unveil the intentions of the heart (1 Cor. 4:5), he will enter boldly into that radiant light without shame, for his conscience remains undefiled by wrongful deeds, cleansed with tears of repentance and earnest self-reflection. Meanwhile, those who commit evil and do not repent will rise burdened with shame to witness the abomination and the marks of their sins. Perhaps the burden of shame is more dreadful than eternal darkness and fire, for sinners will forever be haunted by the memories of their transgressions, like an indelible stain forever embedded in the souls. Only the tears of repentance possess the power to erase these marks. Cleanse the face of your soul with them now, and it will be illuminated and unashamed on that day.