Psalm 79 (78):12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

What he seeks is not evil itself, but rather that which he foretells and prophesies regarding the future. In the context of seven, which symbolizes complete retribution, he will witness the entirety of the punishment, as this number often denotes fullness. Hence, the saying: ‘He shall receive in this world seven times as much,’ which is reserved for everyone. It is as if he has nothing yet possesses everything. (2 Cor. 6:10) He refers to his neighbors, among whom the Church remains until the day of separation, for the physical separation is not yet realized. He speaks of them intimately, suggesting that the retribution currently enacted in secret during this life will one day be revealed to the nations before our eyes.

Those who adhere to the teachings of Origen often express this sentiment: ‘Breath of the bound, referring to angels confined within physical forms. Just as captives with chained feet are hindered and unable to move freely, so do our bodies confine the souls, or angels, and force them to the earth.’ Whose affirmation supports this viewpoint? ‘O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?’ (Rom. 7:24). Furthermore, by stating, ‘I long to be released and to be with Christ’ (Phil. 1:23), the goal is to reunite with Christ. ‘Behold,’ the adherent of Origen contends, ‘the apostle speaks of a yearning to return, clearly indicating a previous state of being.’ ‘Let the sighing of the bound come before Thee.’ Yet I will respond plainly and with humble sincerity.

Often we bring judgment upon our neighboring nations for their irreverence. The Prophet intended not a specific count but rather sought the most severe consequences for their actions. In a similar vein, it is expressed that the barren shall bear seven, indicating a multitude (1 Sam. 2:5). The Prophet's use of the term 'bosom' is metaphorical, drawing from the imagery of those who cradle something in their arms, maintaining it with the hope that it remains secure. This conveys the idea of increasing the severity of the afflictions that perpetually loom over them.

Ancient Scripture often refers to the concept of sevenfold to denote multiplicity and substitutes seven times for numerous occurrences. It explicitly identifies humiliation as humiliation: "the humiliation, saith he, which was done unto Thee, O Lord, by the Gentiles, repay them manifold, that they may have it in their bosom," meaning they may carry it securely. This imagery evokes those who secure what they cherish in their hearts to prevent it from being lost. Theodoret interprets this as a call to repay them through constant threats of disaster. Isychius points out that the text shifts from speaking of neighbors to addressing demons. Thus, these beings rightly receive a sevenfold recompense, having been created superior to us yet having been cast down from the heavens. They were not enlightened by their fall and instead misled the earth with their deceptions, leading humanity into sin while also mocking God for the fallen state of man.

The prophet refrains from addressing his neighbors as men, choosing instead to seek a different form of recognition. He does not desire that they receive a sevenfold recompense, aware that the Judge would not permit such a reward. This leads him to question how he could declare, "Thou wilt reward every man according to his works." Hence, he turns his attention to the demons who rightfully endure a sevenfold punishment. These beings, having been created with a nature superior to ours, fell from grace and, rather than repenting, continue to wreak havoc on the earth through their deceit. Their sin is twofold: they not only act against God's will themselves but also incentivize humanity to sin, thereby dishonoring God, whose image in them is left despoiled.

The Prophet previously requested two things on behalf of God's people: first, the retribution for the blood of the slain, and second, the release of those held captive who faced death. Now, he makes a similar petition, though he alters the sequence of his requests: initially seeking the safeguarding of the living, and afterward the justice for the fallen. In keeping with the magnitude of Thy power, provide for the children of the slain; that is, according to the might of Thy hand, stand resolutely against our oppressors: and preserve, meaning to protect and save the remnants of Thy people, O Lord, those who have been struck down by their foes.

The psalm was inspired by the Holy Spirit and authored by David, then entrusted to Asaph, the leader of the singers, so that he could express a prophetic lament regarding the impending destruction of Jerusalem due to the invasions from opposing nations that ultimately occurred. It also reflects the voice of the faithful Church, presenting heartfelt prayers of supplication to God during times of distress. The term "Gentiles" refers to those associated with idolatry, while "God's treasure" signifies the devoted Christian community.