Psalm 44 (43):9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This reflects the essence of the phrase "every day." Similarly, Paul articulates, “I do not desire to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14). Indeed, there is no other glory quite like it. For this reason, he also asserts, “we boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:11). Nothing else can match such commendation. Therefore, let no one take pride in wealth or earthly possessions, but rather in having God as their sovereign. This is superior to any freedom and surpasses even the heavens. If it is deemed an honor to be recognized by certain names among men, consider the profound honor of being called God's. Thus, Paul attributes great significance to it when he states, “they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the passions and lusts” (Galatians 5:24). The term “διάψαλμα” indicates a shift in expression (the Slavonic version lacks this word). Another translator, Akilah, interprets this as "continually." In Hebrew, it is expressed as "sel."

Accordingly, let no one take pride in wealth or worldly accomplishments but rather in having God as their sovereign. This recognition surpasses all freedoms; it is loftier than the very heavens. For while gaining honor from human titles may seem significant, how much greater is the glory of being called by God's name? Paul emphasizes this honor by stating, "They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the passions and lusts" (Galatians 5:24). We proclaim Your name eternally. Let us exalt - some interpret this as - declare, meaning we should share about Your name, recounting all the wondrous miracles and blessings You have bestowed upon our ancestors and us, their descendants. Alternatively, it may suggest that we will give thanks to You. The phrase "for ever" is understood to mean indefinitely and universally, implying always and continually, though it can occasionally refer to a specific duration, a distinction we shall clarify.

Such was not the behavior of the ancients, who devoted their entire lives to recounting the works of God, shaping the mouths of their children into vessels for divine stories, thus guiding them towards the knowledge of God (Chrysostom). May Christ God obliterate the wicked and fortify those who trust in Him. You have caused bitterness among people and forced me, the Jews, into exile for disbelief. The Mystery of the Holy Trinity: The Hand represents God the Father, the Strength symbolizes God the Son, and Illumination denotes God the Holy Spirit. The horns of the Cross of Christ and the name of Jesus Christ instill fear in demons. Just as horned creatures are endowed with horns as natural defenses, we have received the name of Jesus Christ as our weapon for prayer (Theodoret). The demons, filled with loathing, are shamed by Christ. The entirety of human existence is marked by the day that leads to an eternal life in the Heavenly Fatherland. God the Father has turned away from the Jews due to their disbelief in Christ, scattering them across the earth for this very reason. In every place, the Jews face reproach for their unfaithfulness to Christ, much like the demons do. The prophet illustrates the misfortunes of the Jews with sorrowful imagery, expressing their suffering prophetically. Everything they inflicted upon Christ will be repaid to them. They insulted, and they will be insulted; they ridiculed, and they themselves will be ridiculed; they shook their heads at Him, and in turn, they will have heads shaken at them (Athanasius). Thus, we must steer away from the path of the Jews because of their disbelief in Christ. The words of the holy martyrs stand as a testament, their suffering and sacrifice for Christ voicing Adam's lament. The slumber of humanity reflects the longsuffering of God. The righteous awaited the arrival of Christ and salvation through the cross via the Resurrection.