Psalm 9:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When interpreting Scripture figuratively, one must avoid superficial readings. At times, the text requires us to infer deeper meanings, whereas other passages must be understood literally, such as “in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). Conversely, some verses must be interpreted differently from their literal words, such as when it says, “Thou shalt delight thyself continually with the kindly doe and the beautiful sulphur, with the love thereof: let them belong to thee alone, and not to strangers...: thy Source shall be blessed” (Proverbs 5:17-19). If, in seeking understanding, you adhere closely to these words, it becomes apparent how inhumane it would be to deny anyone even a sip of water. In this context, the woman referred to is to be honored with purity, being likened to “the spring” and “the doe,” symbolizing the sanctity of marital intimacy.

In different instances, however, one may need to take the words literally while still inferring an alternative meaning, as illustrated in the phrase, “as Moses lifted up the serpent” (John 3:14). Here, one must accept the historical truth of this event while also recognizing it as a foreshadowing of Christ. Similarly, one who recounts the Psalmist’s words to the Jews will find no fault. “Thou hast enthroned Him that judgest in righteousness. Thou hast punished the nations, and the wicked perish. Thou hast blotted out his name for ever and ever and ever. Thou hast utterly exhausted the weapons of the enemy, and Thou hast destroyed the cities: his memory perished with a tumult.” The entirety of creation bears witness to the fate of those who crucified Christ: their cities lay in ruin, and the schemes of the adversary were rendered futile by the providence of Christ, who oversees all. Yet, let us set aside such reflections for those inclined to inquiry and focus on clarifying the matter at hand: “He has prepared His throne for judgment.” To echo Aquila, it is stated, “established for judgment.”

The Apostle Paul articulates: "If we have been united with Him in a death like His, we shall certainly be united with Him in a resurrection like His" (Rom. 6:5), and again: "If we have died with Him, we shall also live with Him" (Rom. 6:8). Therefore, God, having vanquished the wickedness of His adversaries, called forth righteousness. "His memory perished with a tumult." "And the Lord endureth for ever." The enemy is consigned to a destruction apparent to everyone and unmistakably evident. This is encapsulated in the phrase "with a noise," likening it to the sound of houses collapsing during an earthquake, producing a great cracking sound. Yet our God and Lord, as declared by the Prophet, holds eternal reign and an everlasting kingdom. "He hath prepared His throne for judgment." "And He that judgeth shall judge the universe in righteousness, shall judge men in righteousness." Not only will He demonstrate His power in this life, but in the age to come, He will unveil His formidable judgment, overseeing all humankind and rewarding each according to their deeds.

This is articulated to provide a basis for those who doubt what is to come, encouraging belief rather than skepticism by drawing from the present evidence. Why, then, does he mention the Lord judging the universe in truth, given the existence of numerous earthly rulers and judges who may act in accordance with justice, albeit without faith? Their error lies in their failure to uphold true justice in all matters; even those who are generally just may falter due to ignorance, apathy, or the frailty inherent in humanity. However, the Lord remains entirely distinct from these weaknesses, being entirely willing and equipped to administer righteous judgment in all things.