Psalm 73 (72):11Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Consider the contemplation they experience. Observe how the wicked prosper, as if God is indifferent to human affairs. Does He truly see our actions? Reflect on the words expressed. We inquire, dear brothers, “How can God be aware?” Let us refrain from uttering such doubts among believers. For how can it be perceived that God lacks understanding and that there is ignorance in the Almighty?

They inquired, "How will the Lord guide?" My people will gain from the downfall of the unrighteous. Yet, the wicked and lawless individuals previously referred to have entirely surrendered themselves to malice, leading those who observe their lives to feel distressed and confused, prompting them to ask, "Does God perceive the actions of humanity?" For it is stated, "How will we discern?" rather than questioning, "Why do they assert that God is aware of our matters and governs all creation, and how can He possess understanding of our circumstances?"

Simmachus offers a clearer translation: They questioned, ‘How can God know? Is the Most High aware? In other words, God has made a promise; yet they contemplated among themselves that God neither observes nor perceives what transpires. Then, revealing their malice, He makes known their inner thoughts.

They questioned, ‘What does God truly know?’ The more timid and imprudent members of the community, witnessing such deeds, remarked, ‘How does God perceive this and allow it? Surely He does not. And what insight can the Most High possess?’ The term implies an inquiry. Knowledge refers to the understanding of the events that occur.

Some commentators attribute these statements to the ungodly and their blasphemous remarks, which they use to embolden their sinful actions; however, such an interpretation lacks a solid basis. David is elucidating his previous statement, indicating that even the most devout can find their minds troubled when confronted with the fleeting success of the wicked. They may question whether God possesses justice and understanding. This does not imply that they genuinely entertain such blasphemous notions themselves, as previously mentioned, but rather that they struggle to contain their thoughts when they perceive God as if He is neglecting His role.

A Psalm, inspired by the Holy Spirit and addressed to David, was entrusted to Asaph, the leader of the musicians, so he could present it with his own expression for the comfort of all those gathered before God. This is meant to alleviate their fears regarding the wicked, who may enjoy a prosperous life filled with various pleasures, and the faithful, who endure hardship and adversity. It emphasizes that both groups are granted a short time here on earth: the wicked for enjoying worldly wealth and the righteous for enduring tribulation (2 Pet. 2:13). However, the fate of the wicked is eternal destruction, whereas the ultimate outcome for the righteous is everlasting joy (Theodoret, Athanasius, Chrysostom). While the feet may wander, the mind trembles at the thought of sin. Those who have strayed and begun to fall should avert their decline through repentance, holding onto hope in the grace of the One who restores the fallen (Theodoret, Chrysostom).