Psalm 9:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

An alternate interpreter, Aquila, remarks, Let not the proud be proud. Let the nations stand before You in judgment. Another translator, whose identity remains unknown, adds: and before Your presence. After addressing the wickedness that has overtaken many in the populace, including their vices such as dishonesty, greed, and murder, the prophet seeks divine aid for those who have been wronged. This exemplifies the compassion of the saints; they are concerned not only for their own well-being but for the entire creation as if it were one household, imploring God for all humanity as a singular body. "Arise, O Lord! Let not man triumph." What is the significance of "Arise, O Lord"? It signifies asking for retribution, for assistance, for justice against the unjust.

Rise up, O Lord, let not humanity prevail (Psalms 9:19). This petition anticipates the day of judgment; however, until that time arrives, allow the nations to be judged in Your presence, signifying a hidden judgment, known only to a select group of holy and righteous individuals.

Awaken, O Lord, that mankind may not gain strength. It is hoped that the Only Begotten may manifest His light to those who dwell upon the earth, and that the proud adversary, whom David refers to as ‘man’ in this psalm, may no longer raise his countenance. May the nations be brought to account before You, as we earnestly petition for the swift gathering of the Gentiles unto salvation.

(Deut. 34: 10.) It is appropriate for any Jew to inquire, which lawgiver is the Prophet advocating for? For Moses, the esteemed servant of God’s law from ancient times, had already departed, and no subsequent lawgiver emerged after him (Deuteronomy 34:10). If it appears that there has been no other appointed lawgiver for either Jews or Gentiles, it leads us to recognize that it is the Lord Christ who has been designated as the lawgiver for the Gentiles. In the Holy Gospel, He proclaims, 'It was said unto the ancients, Thou shalt not kill. But I say unto you, that whosoever angereth his brother in vain shall be guilty of judgement. It was said unto the ancients, Thou shalt not commit adultery.

Arise, O Lord; let not humanity prevail. One translator has suggested that instead of ‘let him not prevail,’ we might say ‘let him not be derided.’ The prophet conveys these words in light of the struggles among nations against one another. Because people, lacking true leaders and unaware of their humble origin, have dared to act beyond their human nature, even aspiring to liken themselves to divine beings. Thus, the plea is to appear, to intervene, O Lord, and curb their hubris.

The Arrival of the Antichrist While the prophet spoke of the culmination of the age, he perceived, through the enlightenment of his heart, the emergence of the Antichrist. Overcome by the seriousness of this threat, he called out fervently: Arise, O Lord! Let not humanity triumph. Indeed, the Antichrist is the most despicable among men, an entity unbearable to humanity, whose deceit and arrogance will be so profound that only the might of the Lord can vanquish his evil.

Upon recognizing the faults that afflict many individuals, and upon witnessing the cruelty and oppression exercised by those in power, he earnestly petitions God for aid on behalf of the oppressed. What is it, O Lord who has triumphed over death? It is the same as to rise up, intercede, assist, and bring justice upon those who commit wrongs. What, for the purpose of what? Let no individual contend or mourn; let not the mighty prevail against the weak, for they are mere dust and ashes before You, their Creator. Let the nations face judgment in Your presence. That is, may the legions of all wicked individuals receive recompense for their transgressions. They have not changed their ways despite Your forbearance; for You require an explanation for their audacity.

In this context, man is understood to represent the Antichrist, referenced in scripture as "the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, the adversary, and exalted above every God who speaks" (2 Thess. 2:3-4). The prophet implores God to not endure for long this individual who intends great harm to the elect. Additionally, the prophet expresses a longing for the restoration of Christ. Let no one be strong, for this malevolent gathering of the Jews is set on his eternal destruction. May judgment rest upon the tongues of the unfaithful so that they may grasp the truth and be restored in their faith in Christ.