Psalm 77 (76):8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In this life, he experienced fatigue, finding no dependable or fearless solace. Regardless of the individuals he approached, he encountered disgrace or the fear of it. As a result, he was burdened with anxiety everywhere. Remaining silent seemed dangerous, as he might be silenced by well-meaning words; conversely, speaking freely was distressing, as he dreaded that his adversaries, anticipating a defense, would search for faults in his speech. Deeply restricted in his current existence, he contemplated another life devoid of such tribulations. He pondered when he might reach that place. It is clear that our suffering here reflects divine displeasure. Isaiah states, 'I will not contend forever, nor will I be angry for eternity' (Isaiah 57:16). Will the Lord’s wrath remain indefinitely?

These were the reflections I had. God formed humanity from the dust and offered him everlasting life. How then is humanity expelled from the Garden of Eden, from the realm of God?

I have reflected on these thoughts: Will the Lord turn away from them permanently and cease to show them grace? Will He withhold His compassion indefinitely? Or will He completely abandon us, making us strangers to His concern? The word has ceased to be spoken from one generation to the next. Symmachus interprets it in this manner: He has brought the message of every generation to a close. This is the fear I share, says the Prophet, that from the very start, He declares the decrees pertaining to every people, fully aware of their deeds.

These statements, along with the subsequent phrases, convey uncertainty regarding the declaration, "And I said, Now I have begun." They reflect a personal struggle to discern whether God has entirely withdrawn His guidance from us and will cease to take delight in us. This is what is implied by the question, "Will He no longer be pleased with us?"

The trials faced by the Prophet were the source of deep reflection during his sleepless nights, revealing his profound weariness from enduring persistent afflictions. His lamentation had not previously emerged until after a period of great perseverance, and he had long feared that God would never show him mercy. Yet, it is fitting to affirm, "Will He not again show favour?" God's grace toward us is bestowed with the purpose of sustaining us throughout our lives; however, our sins often lead to a loss of this grace. Thus, rather than voicing complaints against God, he engages in introspection, contending with the belief that it is impossible for God not to extend His grace to those whom He has cherished eternally in a paternal manner.

Idiphum and Asaph served as the principal singers for David, to whom this psalm was entrusted, so they could perform it at intervals, lifting their faces in praise to the glory of God. Some interpret Idiphum as referring to a specific musical instrument from that time, at which Asaph, being the leader of the singers, rendered this psalm. The name Idiphum suggests an arrival, while Asaph signifies a gathering of individuals; thus, this psalm provides guidance for the faithful community who assemble in the name of Christ the Lord, allowing them to transition from this temporary existence to eternal life, from their earthly pilgrimage to the heavenly homeland. The voice that offers prayer stems from the heart of the prophet, and sincere supplication finds favor with God. The prophet emphasizes that the Lord is near to all who call upon Him and is not distant from those who seek Him earnestly.