Thanksgiving for God’s Justice: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 9

Executive Summary

Psalm 9, a powerful hymn of Thanksgiving for God’s Justice, resonates deeply with the Coptic Orthodox tradition. This psalm, attributed to David, isn’t merely a personal expression of gratitude; it’s a prophetic declaration of God’s righteous judgment and unwavering faithfulness to the oppressed. We see in these verses a vivid picture of the Lord enthroned in justice, destroying the wicked and establishing a kingdom of peace. The psalm’s geographical context, likely rooted in the tumultuous history of ancient Israel, speaks to the enduring struggle between good and evil. Drawing upon Patristic interpretations and the rich tapestry of Coptic hymns, we uncover the profound spiritual truths embedded within each verse, illuminating God’s unwavering care for His people and the ultimate triumph of justice over iniquity. This chapter underscores the vital importance of continuous thanksgiving, unwavering faith, and active participation in establishing God’s Kingdom on earth.

This psalm, a testament to God’s unwavering justice, begins with a heartfelt declaration of praise and extends to a passionate plea for divine intervention. It is a prayer for deliverance, a song of victory, and a proclamation of God’s enduring reign. Let us explore the depths of Psalm 9 and glean its profound spiritual lessons.

Commentary

Psalm 9:1 (KJV) – I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.

Psalm 9:1 (LXX) – Ἐξομολογήσομαί σοι, Κύριε, ἐν ὅλῃ καρδίᾳ μου, διηγήσομαι πάντα τὰ θαυμάσιά σου.

This opening verse sets the tone for the entire psalm: a wholehearted commitment to praising God. David doesn’t offer mere lip service but pledges his entire being to celebrating the Lord’s “marvellous works.” The Greek, “διηγήσομαι πάντα τὰ θαυμάσιά σου” (diēgēsomai panta ta thaumasia sou), emphasizes the act of recounting or narrating all God’s wonders. This speaks to the importance of testimony in the Christian life. We are called not only to experience God’s grace but also to share it with others. 🌟

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a spirit of genuine gratitude. Take time each day to acknowledge and celebrate God’s blessings, both big and small. Share your experiences of God’s grace with others, becoming a living testament to His power and love. Explore Dohost for creating a website to share your testimonies with a wider audience.

Psalm 9:2 (KJV) – I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.

Psalm 9:2 (LXX) – εὐφρανθήσομαι καὶ ἀγαλλιάσομαι ἐν σοί, ψαλῶ τῷ ὀνόματί σου, ὕψιστε.

The joy expressed here is not superficial happiness, but a profound gladness rooted in God Himself. “εὐφρανθήσομαι καὶ ἀγαλλιάσομαι ἐν σοί” (euphranthēsomai kai agalliassomai en soi) conveys a deep-seated delight and exultation found *in* God, not merely *because* of what He does. The title “Most High” (ὕψιστε – hypsiste) reminds us of God’s supreme authority and sovereignty. ✨

St. Athanasius the Apostolic says, “God is not praised in words only, but in deeds and in truth.” (Ἀθανάσιος ὁ Ἀποστολικός: Οὐ λόγοις μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἔργοις καὶ ἀληθείᾳ δοξάζεται ὁ Θεός).

Spiritual Application: Seek joy in your relationship with God, not just in external circumstances. Cultivate a habit of praising His name through prayer, worship, and acts of service. Remember, true joy comes from knowing and loving God.🕊️

Psalm 9:3-4 (KJV) – When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence. For thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right.

Psalm 9:3-4 (LXX) – Ἐν τῷ ἀποστραφῆναι τὸν ἐχθρόν μου εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω ἀσθενήσουσιν καὶ ἀπολοῦνται ἀπὸ προσώπου σου. Ὅτι ἐποίησας τὴν κρίσιν μου καὶ τὴν δίκην μου· ἐκάθισας ἐπὶ θρόνου ὁ κρίνων δικαιοσύνην.

These verses highlight God’s role as the righteous judge. The enemies “fall and perish at thy presence,” demonstrating the power of God’s judgment. The phrase “thou hast maintained my right and my cause” speaks to God’s faithfulness in defending His people. “ἐκάθισας ἐπὶ θρόνου ὁ κρίνων δικαιοσύνην” (ekathisas epi thronou ho krinōn dikaiosynēn) emphasizes the idea of God being enthroned in judgment, dispensing justice fairly. This is a powerful image that reinforces the belief in God’s ultimate justice.

Historical Context: Consider the geographical context of ancient Israel, constantly threatened by neighboring kingdoms. David experienced firsthand the reality of enemies surrounding him. This backdrop makes God’s promise of protection all the more meaningful.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice, even when you face injustice in the world. Remember that He sees all and will ultimately make all things right. Stand firm in your faith, knowing that God is your defender.

Psalm 9:5-6 (KJV) – Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever. O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their memorial is perished with them.

Psalm 9:5-6 (LXX) – Ἐπετίμησας ἔθνεσιν, καὶ ἀπώλετο ὁ ἀσεβής, τὸ ὄνομα αὐτῶν ἐξήλειψας εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα καὶ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τοῦ αἰῶνος. Τοῦ ἐχθροῦ ἐξέλιπον αἱ ρομφαῖαι εἰς τέλος, καὶ τὰς πόλεις κατέσκαψας· ἀπώλετο ἡ μνήμη αὐτῶν μετ’ ἤχου.

These verses paint a picture of God’s complete victory over evil. The “heathen” and the “wicked” are rebuked and destroyed, their memory erased forever. This speaks to the ultimate futility of opposing God. The destruction of cities highlights the transience of earthly power. “ἀπώλετο ἡ μνήμη αὐτῶν μετ’ ἤχου” (apōleto hē mnēmē autōn met’ ēchou) suggests that even the memory of their destruction fades away over time. 📖

Spiritual Application: Focus on building a lasting legacy of faith and love, not on seeking earthly power or fame. Remember that true fulfillment comes from serving God and others.

Psalm 9:7-8 (KJV) – But the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment. And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness.

Psalm 9:7-8 (LXX) – Ὁ δὲ Κύριος εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα μένει· ἡτοίμασεν ἐν κρίσει τὸν θρόνον αὐτοῦ. Καὶ αὐτὸς κρινεῖ τὴν οἰκουμένην ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ, κρινεῖ λαοὺς ἐν εὐθύτητι.

In contrast to the fleeting nature of earthly power, the Lord’s reign endures forever. He has prepared His throne for judgment, and He will judge the world in righteousness. “Ὁ δὲ Κύριος εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα μένει” (Ho de Kyrios eis ton aiōna menei) powerfully asserts the eternal nature of God. The phrase “κρινεῖ λαοὺς ἐν εὐθύτητι” (krinei laous en euthytēti) emphasizes that God’s judgment is just and impartial.⚖️

Spiritual Application: Find comfort in the knowledge that God’s justice will ultimately prevail. Trust in His wisdom and guidance, even when you don’t understand His plan. Live your life in accordance with His righteousness.

Psalm 9:9-10 (KJV) – The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

Psalm 9:9-10 (LXX) – Καὶ ἐγένετο Κύριος καταφυγὴ τῷ πένητι, βοηθὸς ἐν εὐκαιρίαις ἐν θλίψει. Καὶ ἐλπιείτωσαν ἐπὶ σοὶ οἱ γινώσκοντες τὸ ὄνομά σου, ὅτι οὐκ ἐγκατέλιπες τοὺς ἐκζητοῦντάς σε, Κύριε.

God is portrayed as a refuge for the oppressed, a helper in times of trouble. Those who know His name will trust in Him, for He never forsakes those who seek Him. “Καὶ ἐγένετο Κύριος καταφυγὴ τῷ πένητι” (Kai egeneto Kyrios kataphygē tō penēti) highlights God’s special care for the vulnerable and marginalized. The promise, “οὐκ ἐγκατέλιπες τοὺς ἐκζητοῦντάς σε, Κύριε” (ouk egkatelipes tous ekzētountas se, Kyrie), is a cornerstone of Christian faith.🙏

St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “For those who call upon Him in truth, He is ever present to help.” (Κύριλλος Ἀλεξανδρείας: Τοῖς γὰρ ἐπ’ ἀληθείας ἐπικαλουμένοις αὐτὸν ἀεὶ πάρεστι βοηθῶν).

Spiritual Application: Turn to God in times of trouble. Trust in His unwavering love and support. Seek Him through prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers. Know that He will never abandon you.💖

Psalm 9:11-12 (KJV) – Sing praises to the Lord, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings. When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble.

Psalm 9:11-12 (LXX) – Ψάλατε τῷ Κυρίῳ τῷ κατοικοῦντι ἐν Σιὼν ἀναγγείλατε ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν τὰ ἐπιτηδεύματα αὐτοῦ. Ὅτι ἐκζητῶν τὰ αἵματα αὐτῶν ἐμνήσθη, οὐκ ἐπελάθετο τῆς κραυγῆς τῶν πενήτων.

This section calls for public praise of God’s actions. The image of God “making inquisition for blood” signifies His commitment to justice, remembering the cries of the humble. “Ψάλατε τῷ Κυρίῳ τῷ κατοικοῦντι ἐν Σιὼν” (Psalate tō Kyriō tō katoikounti en Siōn) links praise to God’s presence in Zion, the center of worship. “οὐκ ἐπελάθετο τῆς κραυγῆς τῶν πενήτων” (ouk epelateto tēs kraugēs tōn penētōn) emphasizes that God hears and responds to the prayers of the afflicted. 👂

Spiritual Application: Actively participate in corporate worship and praise. Share your faith with others, declaring God’s goodness. Advocate for the oppressed and speak out against injustice, knowing that God hears the cries of the vulnerable.🗣️

Psalm 9:13-14 (KJV) – Have mercy upon me, O Lord; consider my trouble which I suffer of them that hate me, thou that liftest me up from the gates of death: That I may shew forth all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy salvation.

Psalm 9:13-14 (LXX) – Ἐλέησόν με, Κύριε· ἴδε τὴν ταπείνωσίν μου ἐκ τῶν ἐχθρῶν μου, ὁ ὑψῶν με ἐκ τῶν πυλῶν τοῦ θανάτου· Ὅπως ἂν ἐξαγγείλω πάσας τὰς αἰνέσεις σου ἐν ταῖς πύλαις τῆς θυγατρὸς Σιὼν· ἀγαλλιάσομαι ἐπὶ τῷ σωτηρίῳ σου.

Here, the psalmist shifts to a personal plea for mercy, acknowledging suffering at the hands of enemies. He recognizes God as the one who lifts him up from the gates of death, enabling him to declare praise and rejoice in salvation. “Ἐλέησόν με, Κύριε” (Eleēson me, Kyrie) is a cry for divine mercy, a fundamental expression of prayer in the Orthodox tradition. “ἀγαλλιάσομαι ἐπὶ τῷ σωτηρίῳ σου” (agalliassomai epi tō sōtēriō sou) is a powerful statement of joy in God’s saving power.💖

Spiritual Application: Don’t hesitate to cry out to God for mercy and help in times of trouble. Remember that He is compassionate and responsive to your needs. Trust in His saving power and seek to glorify Him in all that you do.

Psalm 9:15-16 (KJV) – The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.

Psalm 9:15-16 (LXX) – Ἐνεπάγησαν ἔθνη ἐν τῷ ὀλεθρείῳ ᾧ ἐποίησαν, ἐν τῇ παγίδι ταύτῃ ᾗ ἔκρυψαν συνελήφθη ὁ πούς αὐτῶν. Γνωστὸς ἐστιν ὁ Κύριος κρίματα ποιῶν· ἐν τοῖς ἔργοις τῶν χειρῶν αὐτῶν συνελήφθη ὁ ἁμαρτωλός. (ᾨδὴ διαψάλματος).

These verses illustrate the principle of reaping what you sow. The wicked fall into the traps they set for others. God is known by the judgments He executes. “Ἐνεπάγησαν ἔθνη ἐν τῷ ὀλεθρείῳ ᾧ ἐποίησαν” (Enepagēsan ethne en tō olethriō hō epoiēsan) vividly depicts the nations ensnared by their own wicked schemes. The term “(ᾨδὴ διαψάλματος)” ((Ōdē diapsalmatos)) indicates a musical interlude or reflection.🎶

Spiritual Application: Be mindful of your actions and their consequences. Strive to live a life of integrity, knowing that God sees all. Remember that true justice will ultimately prevail.

Psalm 9:17-18 (KJV) – The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all nations that forget God. For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.

Psalm 9:17-18 (LXX) – Ἀποστραφήτωσαν οἱ ἁμαρτωλοὶ εἰς τὸν ᾅδην, πάντα τὰ ἔθνη τὰ ἐπιλανθανόμενα τοῦ Θεοῦ. Ὅτι οὐκ εἰς τέλος ἐπιλησθήσεται ὁ πένης, ἡ ὑπομονὴ τῶν πτωχῶν οὐκ ἀπολεῖται εἰς τέλος.

The fate of the wicked is contrasted with the hope of the poor and needy. Those who forget God will be turned into hell, while the expectation of the poor will not perish forever. “Ἀποστραφήτωσαν οἱ ἁμαρτωλοὶ εἰς τὸν ᾅδην” (Apostraphētōsan hoi hamartōloi eis ton hadēn) warns of the consequences of rejecting God. “ἡ ὑπομονὴ τῶν πτωχῶν οὐκ ἀπολεῖται εἰς τέλος” (hē hypomonē tōn ptōchōn ouk apoleitai eis telos) offers hope that the perseverance of the poor will ultimately be rewarded.💖

Spiritual Application: Remember the importance of remembering God in all aspects of your life. Prioritize spiritual values over material wealth. Show compassion to the poor and needy, knowing that their hope rests in God.

Psalm 9:19-20 (KJV) – Arise, O Lord; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight. Put them in fear, O Lord: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.

Psalm 9:19-20 (LXX) – Ἀνάστηθι, Κύριε, μὴ κραταιούσθω ἄνθρωπος, κριθήτωσαν ἔθνη ἐνώπιόν σου. Κατάστησον, Κύριε, νομοθέτην ἐπ’ αὐτούς, γνώτωσαν ἔθνη ὅτι ἄνθρωποι εἰσίν. (Διάψαλμα).

The psalm concludes with a plea for God to arise and judge the nations. The prayer is that the nations will recognize their mortality and limitations. “Ἀνάστηθι, Κύριε” (Anastēthi, Kyrie) is a call for God to actively intervene in human affairs. “γνώτωσαν ἔθνη ὅτι ἄνθρωποι εἰσίν” (gnōtōsan ethne hoti anthrōpoi eisin) expresses the hope that the nations will acknowledge their human limitations and turn to God.🙏

Spiritual Application: Pray for God’s justice to prevail in the world. Recognize the limitations of human power and authority. Seek to live in humility and dependence on God.

Subtopic: God’s Justice and Our Response

Psalm 9 is not just a historical account; it is a call to action. It compels us to reflect on God’s justice and our responsibility as believers.

• Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude: Continually acknowledge and thank God for His blessings and faithfulness.
• Seek Justice and Righteousness: Stand up for the oppressed and advocate for justice in your community and the world.
• Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Believe that God is in control, even when circumstances seem chaotic.
• Remember the Poor and Needy: Show compassion and provide practical help to those in need.
• Live a Life of Integrity: Strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, reflecting His love and righteousness.
• Share Your Faith: Declare God’s goodness to others, inviting them to experience His saving grace.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why is it important to praise God even in difficult times?

A: Praising God in difficult times shifts our focus from our problems to His power and faithfulness. It strengthens our faith and reminds us that He is still in control, even when circumstances are challenging. It’s an act of surrender and trust.

Q: How can I apply the principles of justice found in Psalm 9 to my daily life?

A: You can apply these principles by treating everyone with fairness and respect, standing up for those who are marginalized or oppressed, and advocating for policies that promote justice and equality. Consider volunteering with organizations that serve the poor and needy.

Q: What does it mean to “know God’s name” as mentioned in Psalm 9?

A: “Knowing God’s name” goes beyond simply knowing His title. It means having a personal relationship with Him, understanding His character and attributes, and trusting in His promises. It’s an intimate knowledge that comes from experiencing His grace and love.

Q: How does Psalm 9 relate to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of salvation?

A: Psalm 9 emphasizes God’s justice and His role as a refuge for the oppressed. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox understanding of salvation as deliverance from sin and injustice through Christ’s sacrifice. It also highlights the importance of our active participation in seeking justice and reflecting God’s love in the world.

Conclusion

Psalm 9, a profound expression of Thanksgiving for God’s Justice, offers timeless spiritual insights that resonate deeply within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. This psalm encourages us to cultivate a heart of gratitude, to trust in God’s unwavering justice, and to actively participate in establishing His Kingdom of righteousness on earth. By remembering God’s faithfulness, we can face life’s challenges with confidence and hope, knowing that He will never forsake those who seek Him. As we reflect on these verses, let us be inspired to live lives of integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to God. Let the call to praise Him resound in our hearts and actions.

Tags

Psalm 9, Coptic Orthodox, Thanksgiving, Justice, Commentary, Patristic Fathers, Scripture, Theology, Faith, Prayer

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Explore a Coptic Orthodox commentary on Psalm 9: **Thanksgiving for God’s Justice**. Uncover its profound spiritual lessons & practical applications for modern life.