Psalm 62 (61):1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Its title is “To the end, in the name of Idithun, a psalm of David.” I recall that the meaning of Idithun has been clarified to you previously. Let us consider how far he has leaped, whom he has surpassed, and in what manner, despite having crossed over some individuals, he finds himself in a position where, from a spiritual stronghold, he can observe what lies beneath. He, being established, I say, in a certain fortified place, declares, “Shall not my soul find rest in God?” (Psalm 61:1).

There are two psalms attributed with the title ‘Of Idiphum’: the thirty-eighth psalm and another in the collection. It seems evident that these psalms were crafted by David and entrusted to Idiphum, allowing him to utilize them for the healing of the soul's passions. By performing these psalms publicly, it was intended that God would be glorified, and the listeners would find transformation in their moral conduct. Idiphum functioned as a sacred psalmist, as is recorded in the historical accounts of the book of the Chronicles, which notes, “And with them Heman and Idiphum and .... trumpets and cymbals to shout, and organs of the singing of God” (1 Chron. 16:41-42).

Idiphum served as a prominent figure in the Lord’s temple. After succumbing to sin, he receives this psalm from David, which beckons him to reclaim his former righteousness. Furthermore, David prophesies in this psalm about the forthcoming salvation of humanity through the redemptive work of the Savior, speaking of the defeat of spiritual adversaries. He also advises individuals to renounce wrongdoing, urging them to remember God's judgment.

To the end. Through Idiphun. A Psalm of David. We often find ourselves hastily seeking the conclusion to understand the essence of what we have read, viewed, or heard. However, the title itself compels us to acknowledge a common desire. Additionally, while it is evident from numerous psalms that God’s prophecy shines within them, this particular psalm highlights that truth even more. Thus, we must diligently contemplate who this ‘end’ refers to. He is identified as the culmination and peak of the action we are exploring. Christ is regarded as the end because He fulfills the law, as noted, "The end of the law is Christ, for righteousness to everyone who believes" (Rom. 10:4). He is similarly referred to as the end since He is both the Alpha and the Omega (Rev. 1:8).

Symmachus rendered it in this manner: victorious from Idiphum, a hymn for David. This indicates that the psalm is indeed associated with the blessed David, as he was Idiphum, leading the assembly in the Divine temple, offering praise to the God of all creations, as noted in the book of the Paralipomenon (1 Chronicles 16:41). Additionally, the psalm symbolizes the emergence of the Macedonians and the wicked actions of Antiochus Epiphanes against the Maccabees. It instructs the thoughts that those striving for virtue should embrace in times of conflict with opposing forces.

Ultimately, the psalm attributed to David in the context of Idiphum serves a significant purpose. Its title indicates that it speaks to the prophecy concerning the final judgment, particularly referencing the valiant stand of the Maccabees against King Antiochus Epiphanes out of faith, even unto death. The term Idiphum signifies the leader of the choir, as noted in the introduction to this collection of Psalms in chapter five. This psalm encourages believers to persevere through trials and maintain their faith in God.

A psalm of David for the choir director, often referred to as “the idiphum.” This composition primarily reflects David's reflections, urging both himself and others to place their trust in God and remain steadfast against the present challenges. In its concluding verses, he addresses the futility of relying on wealth.

This Psalm likely reflects the periods of persecution that David faced under Saul and Absalom, both of whom sought to strip him of his royal status (v.5). Throughout these trials, David relied on God rather than on humanity. His declaration in v.7, "No, I will not cease," indicates his experience during Saul's pursuit, at which point he hesitated to depart from the royal court; see also Ps.10. The Hebrew phrase ‘I will not be shaken’ could have been voiced by David during Absalom's rebellion, a sentiment echoed in v.5, which also relates to this episode. For context regarding the superscription, refer to Psalm 38:1.

Psalm 38 serves as a culmination of the Law, embodied in Christ the Lord (Rom. 10:4). This Psalm was divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit and penned by David, entrusted to Edithum, the head of the singers. Let it be sung with a genuine spirit, proclaiming the unwavering hope of God, who empowers us with patience for Christ the Lord, who is invaluable and freely offered to liberate us from suffering and death for the redemption of all humanity. Only the Redeemer can quell the turmoil. "Glory to Thee, O Christ God, our hope, glory to Thee," declares the Church.