Psalm 39 (38):1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The title of the psalm we have just sung and are about to explore is “At the end of Idithun, a psalm for David himself.” In this context, we are invited to reflect on the words of a man named Iditun; if we each can embody Iditun, then we can find our own voices within his song. We should consider who Iditun was according to the ancient understanding and delve into the meaning of his name to grasp the Truth it conveys. Through our studies of names translated from Hebrew to Latin by those who investigate sacred texts, it appears that the translation of Iditun is distinctively significant. Who, then, is this individual who surpasses others? Or who are those he has left behind?

Idiphum, the revered musician adorned with prophetic insight, conducts the melody, presenting the visage of David as he acknowledges his transgression.

I intend to share some thoughts with you. This introduces a brief overview of the topic at hand, presenting its title and identifying the audience, much like Cicero does in his works. My dear children, I draw on the opening of this psalm, as seen in Psalm 38. This psalm was composed by the prophet David and is attributed to Idiphum, a figure referenced in several biblical passages. I encourage you to deeply consider it, as its emotional depth and meaningful reflections are truly captivating. Upon engaging with this psalm, we recognize that it imparted lessons on the value of patient endurance, appropriate speech, and a healthy disregard for material wealth—key principles of virtue. While reflecting on this psalm, I was inspired to write about our responsibilities.

Other authors have credited this psalm to Idiphum, claiming it was penned by him. However, the title indicates otherwise, revealing that it is a psalm attributed to David, intended for performance by Idiphum, who oversees the demeanor of the singers. It directs our attention to the ultimate fate of humanity, expressing sorrow over its frailty and mortality. This psalm was voiced by the notable David during his trials under Absalom's betrayal and the scorn of Semei; it shares numerous similarities with the preceding psalm.

The designation of this psalm, ascribed to David, in the inscription to Idiphum, has been clearly discussed at the beginning of the book in chapter 5, indicating that David composed the psalm and entrusted it to the sacred musician Idiphum for contemplation. The additional inscription at the conclusion of this psalm is a reflection of David's lament regarding the fleeting nature of human existence, as he expresses this in the lines: "Tell me, O Lord, my end, and what is the number of my days." According to Asterius, in this plea, he seeks to be honored with the rest that is prepared for him among the saints.

ADVENTURE. Stanza 1) Ultimately, idiphum (In Heb. To the beginning singer of idiphum) a hymn to David. CONTENT. In this psalm, David expresses deep inner anguish, which overwhelms him to the point of frustration, leading him to run out of laments.

This psalm is attributed to David and directed to Idiphum, one of the three choir leaders appointed by David as noted in 1 Chronicles 16ff. It is likely that this psalm was sung during the period of Saul’s persecution. The psalmist endures significant distress caused by wicked individuals (vv. 2b, 10, 11), yet he resolves not to voice complaints during his anguish, mindful of the danger of sin through lamenting against God (v. 2).

Idiphum, a contemporary of David and leader of the sacred musicians, was known for his role as a singer (1 Chron. 16:41; 1 Chron. 25:1, 3, 6; 2 Chron. 5:12). Comparing this with Nehemiah 11:17 suggests that he may have established a group or choir of singers who carried on his legacy under his name, even long after his time. Consequently, Psalm 76 bears his name. His legacy was acknowledged even during the time of Nehemiah (Nehem. 11:17), where it is noted, “This Psalm is given for singing to Idiphum, as being in charge of the countenance of those who sing,” according to Theodoret. The Slavonic versions of IdiqoÝm correspond to 'IdiqoÝm as found in various ecclesiastical texts along with numerous manuscripts (21, 39, 80, 81, 91 in Golmez c. 90) and in synodal records, the Vulgate, and in Hebrew as Idifun.

The Psalm, prompted by the Holy Spirit for David to compose and entrusted to Idiphum, the leader of the singers, is intended for a concluding purpose that centers on Christ and reveals the mystery of His being. However, similar to Idiphum, it is described as temporary.