Psalm 35 (34):24Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Evaluate me, O Lord, based on my integrity (Psalm 34:24); in other words, consider my deeds. Not by my punishment but by my virtue, O Lord my God; in this manner, render your judgment upon me. And let not my foes exult over me.

The only begotten Word of God, who took on human form while remaining fully divine, inquires of the Father regarding the wrongs inflicted upon us by evil spirits, seeking to disperse the arrogance of the proud. As a result, some will experience shame, while others will celebrate, expressing gratitude for the gift of salvation.

If you do, O Lord, they will rejoice once more, transforming my ailments into happiness, and they will elevate my struggles through their own blessings.

Examine me, O Lord, in light of your righteousness. Bring judgment upon my adversaries, declares the Lord. I find their actions offensive, for I am righteous towards them. O Lord my God, do not allow them to take joy in my downfall. It seems that the conjunction "and" is unnecessary here; perhaps the word "truly" is missing, which would enable the following idea to unfold: truly, O Lord my God, may my foes not find delight in my suffering.

The prophet once more turns to prayer, expressing the same plea in different terms, highlighting the deep stirrings of the spirit. He calls out, “Lord, you have witnessed the intensity of the suffering faced by your humble servant: do not remain silent, whether due to a lack of awareness or unwillingness to defend those who place their faith in you. O Lord, do not withdraw; do not abandon me in my time of trouble, like those who have drifted far away. Furthermore, do not only refrain from withdrawing or staying quiet but also do not remain a passive observer or one who sleeps. Rise up, and as a just and mighty Judge, attentively consider my situation, my conflict with those who persecute me.

Righteousness calls us to recognize the judgment of God the Father, for the adversaries of the Jewish people did not celebrate when Christ the Lord triumphed over death, rising from the grave and ascending in glory to sit at the right hand of God the Father.