Psalm 8:5Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Another translator states that every human is to be remembered. A third translator suggests instead of “visit,” to say “take notice of him.” After addressing the created order and representing the whole through a part, the prophet shifts focus to human activity. While the creatures that are mentioned exist for humankind and serve as evidence of divine craftsmanship, since all of creation is intended for humanity, the prophet introduces another aspect of human endeavor. He begins this discussion gradually and wisely, expressing gratitude for the universe and acknowledging God's general kindness, before highlighting the magnitude of divine care designated for humanity.

The distinction between the heavenly being and the earthly being illustrates the gap that exists between humanity and the Son of Man. Those who bear the likeness of the earthly being, who does not embody the Son of Man, are referred to as "men," while those who reflect the image of the heavenly being are termed "sons of men." The former is known as "the old man," whereas the latter is recognized as "the new man." This new man does emerge from the old, for spiritual rebirth initiates a transformation in earthly existence, marking the commencement of the "Son of Man." In this context, humanity is associated with the earth, while the Son of Man pertains to the heavens; the former remains distant from God, in contrast to the latter who is close to Him. Thus, God acknowledges the former as being far away, while He visits and illuminates the latter with His presence. For salvation is distant from the wicked (Ps 118:155), but we, O Lord, are marked by Your light (Ps 4:7).

The enigma of humanity is profound. If only I could put to death my earthly desires! As I tread a narrow path, one that few can navigate, rather than the broad and easy way, I would willingly offer everything to the Spirit! For what lies ahead is glorious, and the hope that awaits us surpasses our worth. What is humanity that You remember him? How astonishing is this mystery concerning my existence! I am both insignificant and significant, humbled and exalted, mortal yet eternal; I embody both the earthly and the divine! I share one aspect with the world and another with God; one identity with the flesh and another with the Spirit! I must be buried with Christ, rise with Him, inherit Christ, and become a child of God, even divine!

Paul has provided a clear interpretation regarding our Savior, and we should find satisfaction in this understanding.

Concerning the body and the spirit, He addresses the frailty of our physical form and the nature of human life. What can we discern? When we consider the flesh, what is humanity? Yet, when we contemplate the spirit, humanity reveals its true grandeur. We should not disdain the flesh; rather, we should elevate ourselves above its actions. Let us not look down upon the flesh, which, together with Christ, shares in glory in the heavens. “Flesh and blood shall not inherit the kingdom of God,” meaning not the physical form itself, but rather the deeds that stem from it. If “flesh and blood shall not inherit the kingdom of God,” then how is it that we reign alongside Christ? How will we occupy a place with Christ in heavenly realms?

"What is humanity that you are mindful of him? Or the son of man that you care for him?" This inquiry shifts focus from creation to human endeavor. The prophet does not state, "because you created," but rather, "because you remember and care for." In another instance, the Prophet articulates the frailty of human nature with profound reverence, declaring, "man is like a breath; his days are like a fleeting shadow" (Ps. 143:4). Furthermore, he asserts, "Man is like grass; his days are like a blooming flower. It flourishes, yet the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more" (Psalm 102:15-16). Numerous passages in Sacred Scripture dismantle human arrogance. Thus, the prophetic voice exclaims in astonishment: "What is man that you remember him? Or the son of man that you care for him?" Not only have you created him, but you also grant him welfare, continually recall him, and come to the aid of those who suffer.

What is humanity, that You remember him, or the son of man, that You visit him? asked the prophet, who anticipated the mystery of this moment. He wonders, in essence, what is mankind that, through Your grace, O God, You regard this wayward creation, who often forgets Your authority over him? The prophet's inquiry is not entirely his own; he has drawn this metaphor from those who, having made an effort to forget someone, later, moved by sympathy for the one they overlooked, rekindle memories of that person. It is not enough merely to remember; they also seek to aid and protect him in his needs.

After demonstrating the grandeur of God in His essence, He now illustrates its significance for humanity. The inquiry arises, how can it be that You, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, take notice of one who is mere dust and ashes before You? The term “remember” in this context transcends simple recollection; it implies a readiness to bestow goodness. Thus, it follows, "Or the son of man, that Thou visit him?" This visitation signifies the particular care that God extends to humanity, especially exemplified through His act of sending His Son into the world. By embracing human nature, the Son achieved our redemption. The prophet Zechariah expressed this divine visitation in his song: "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people." Such a visitation truly warrants the question, "What is man, that you remember him?"

The prophet was astounded by God’s compassion, as He remembered Adam despite his transgressions and chose to engage with humanity when the Word became incarnate and dwelled among us (John 1:14) for the redemption of Adam and all mankind. The Son embraced the Father, granting us the privilege to proclaim: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, as it is in heaven and on earth’.