My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me? Understanding Psalm 22

✨ Executive Summary

Psalm 22, a poignant lament of apparent abandonment, stands as a profound prophecy of Christ’s suffering on the cross. The opening cry, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”, echoes the very words uttered by our Lord Jesus Christ. This Psalm unveils not just the physical and emotional torment endured by the Messiah, but also the spiritual desolation He experienced in bearing the weight of humanity’s sin. Through meticulous verse-by-verse analysis, we will uncover the intricate details of this prophetic Psalm, connecting it to the Gospels, the writings of the Church Fathers, and the enduring spiritual lessons applicable to our lives today. It’s a call to trust in God even when we feel utterly forsaken, a testament to the transformative power of suffering, and a powerful declaration of ultimate victory through resurrection. Let us explore how Psalm 22 offers solace, guidance, and a deeper understanding of God’s unwavering love amidst the trials of life, and maybe use this knowledge to build a website for our spiritual community.

Psalm 22 is a cry from the depths of despair, a lament that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the suffering of Christ. This Psalm, brimming with anguish and yet resonating with hope, invites us to contemplate the mystery of God’s seeming absence in the face of intense suffering. We will unpack its layers, illuminating its prophetic significance and its enduring relevance for the faithful today, as we wrestle with our own feelings of abandonment and longing for divine presence.

📖 Commentary: Verse by Verse

Psalm 22:1 (KJV)

My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?

Psalm 22:1 (Hebrew)

אֵלִ֣י אֵלִ֣י לָמָ֣ה עֲזַבְתָּ֑נִי רָחֹ֥ק מִֽ֝ישׁוּעָתִ֗י דִּבְרֵ֥י שַׁאֲגָתִֽי

This opening verse, echoing Christ’s cry on the cross (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34), plunges us into the heart of suffering. The Hebrew word “עֲזַבְתָּנִי” (azavtani) signifies a complete abandonment, a sense of utter isolation. The “roaring” represents the depth of anguish, a pain so profound it can only be expressed through inarticulate cries. This is not merely a lament; it’s a questioning of God’s presence in the face of unimaginable torment. Interestingly, the geographical context of Jerusalem, a city built on hills, could have amplified the sound, making the “roaring” even more poignant. The spiritual application is clear: even in our darkest moments, when we feel utterly alone, we can cry out to God, trusting that He hears our pain, even if we can’t perceive His presence. St. Athanasius the Apostolic in his writings speaks extensively about how these words spoken by Christ were a sign of His complete humanity. “Τότε οὖν λέγει τὸ, Θεέ μου, Θεέ μου, ἵνα δείξῃ τὸ ἀνθρώπινον.” (“Then He says, ‘My God, My God,’ so that He might show the human nature.”) (Athanasius, *Against the Arians*, Discourse III, 56)

Psalm 22:2 (KJV)

O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.

The Psalmist continues, lamenting the apparent silence of God despite persistent cries for help. This echoes the experience of many believers who pray fervently yet receive no immediate answer. The “daytime” and “night season” highlight the relentless nature of the suffering, a constant torment with no respite. The repetition underscores the desperation and the agonizing wait for divine intervention. It is reminiscent of the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8), reminding us to persevere in prayer even when we see no immediate results. Coptic Orthodox tradition emphasizes the importance of liturgical prayer, maintaining a constant conversation with God through the daily offices, even when we don’t feel His immediate presence. Such perseverance strengthens our faith and allows us to navigate seasons of apparent divine silence.

Psalm 22:3 (KJV)

But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.

Even in the midst of despair, the Psalmist acknowledges God’s holiness and sovereignty. “Thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel” suggests that God dwells in the midst of His people’s worship. This is a pivotal shift – from questioning God’s absence to affirming His inherent goodness and power. This verse demonstrates the importance of remembering God’s character even when our circumstances seem to contradict it. It’s a reminder that God is always worthy of praise, even when we don’t understand His ways. We can find strength in the liturgical traditions and hymns of the Coptic Orthodox Church, which continually affirm God’s holiness and majesty. These traditions are a good resource to build a website.

Psalm 22:4-5 (KJV)

Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded.

The Psalmist recalls the faithfulness of God to previous generations. This appeal to history serves as a source of hope, reminding him that God has consistently delivered His people in the past. The repetition of “trusted” emphasizes the importance of faith as the key to receiving God’s blessings. This echoes the teachings of the Old Testament prophets, who constantly reminded Israel of God’s covenant faithfulness. The Coptic Orthodox Church places great emphasis on the lives of the saints, who serve as examples of unwavering faith and trust in God, even in the face of persecution. We can draw strength from their stories and apply their lessons to our own lives.

Psalm 22:6-8 (KJV)

But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him!

The Psalmist’s self-description as “a worm, and no man” highlights the depth of his humiliation and suffering. He is utterly dehumanized, treated with scorn and contempt by those around him. This passage foreshadows the humiliation endured by Christ during His Passion. The taunts of the crowd, “He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him: let him deliver him!”, mirror the mockery Jesus faced on the cross (Matthew 27:43). This serves as a powerful reminder that suffering can often involve social isolation and public ridicule. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that suffering, when borne with patience and faith, can be a means of spiritual purification and a participation in the sufferings of Christ. We are called to endure hardship with humility and to trust that God will ultimately vindicate us.

Psalm 22:9-11 (KJV)

But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother’s belly. Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help.

The Psalmist shifts his focus back to God, acknowledging His providential care from the very beginning of his life. “Thou art he that took me out of the womb” emphasizes God’s intimate involvement in our lives, even before we are born. This underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of recognizing God’s hand in every stage of our development. The phrase “thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts” suggests that even in infancy, we are capable of experiencing a sense of trust and security in God’s care. This verse highlights the importance of early spiritual formation and the role of parents in nurturing faith in their children. The plea, “Be not far from me; for trouble is near,” expresses the Psalmist’s desperate need for God’s presence in the face of imminent danger.

Psalm 22:12-13 (KJV)

Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round. They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion.

The Psalmist uses vivid imagery to describe the overwhelming opposition he faces. The “bulls of Bashan” symbolize powerful and ruthless enemies, intent on his destruction. Bashan, a fertile region known for its strong livestock, adds to the sense of overwhelming force. The image of a “ravening and a roaring lion” further emphasizes the ferocity of his attackers. This imagery resonates with the challenges faced by early Christians, who were often persecuted by the Roman authorities. It also speaks to the spiritual battles we face in our own lives, as we contend with temptation, doubt, and the forces of evil. We must remember that these forces are real and powerful, but they are ultimately no match for the power of God.

Psalm 22:14-15 (KJV)

I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.

These verses paint a graphic picture of physical and emotional disintegration. “I am poured out like water” suggests a complete loss of strength and vitality. “All my bones are out of joint” conveys the intense physical pain and disarray. “My heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels” expresses the overwhelming fear and anxiety that consume him. “My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws” indicates extreme dehydration and exhaustion. “Thou hast brought me into the dust of death” underscores the Psalmist’s sense of impending doom. This passage is a powerful prophecy of the physical sufferings of Christ on the cross, where He endured unimaginable pain, dehydration, and ultimately, death. It also speaks to the experience of those who suffer from severe illness or trauma, reminding us to empathize with their pain and offer them comfort and support. We find similar sentiments in the Lamentations of Jeremiah, highlighting the devastating effects of suffering on the individual and the community.

Psalm 22:16-18 (KJV)

For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.

These verses contain some of the most specific and striking prophecies of Christ’s crucifixion. “Dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me” describes the hostile crowd surrounding Jesus. “They pierced my hands and my feet” is a direct reference to crucifixion, a Roman method of execution. “I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me” suggests that the victim is stripped naked and exposed to public ridicule. “They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture” is an exact fulfillment of what happened at the foot of the cross (Matthew 27:35). These verses are a powerful testament to the prophetic nature of Scripture and the meticulous detail with which the Old Testament foreshadows the events of the New Testament. The accuracy of these prophecies strengthens our faith and provides further evidence of the divine inspiration of the Bible. *St. Cyril of Alexandria*, a renowned Church Father, eloquently comments on the fulfillment of these prophecies in his writings. “Τὰς χεῖρας καὶ τοὺς πόδας διέτρυψαν, τουτέστιν, ἐσταύρωσαν.” (“They pierced the hands and the feet, that is, they crucified.”) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Psalm 22*). This passage underscores the importance of reading the Old Testament through the lens of Christ, recognizing Him as the fulfillment of all prophecy.

Psalm 22:19-21 (KJV)

But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion’s mouth: for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns.

Even in the face of imminent death, the Psalmist continues to cry out to God for deliverance. “But be not thou far from me, O Lord” is a desperate plea for God’s presence. “Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog” expresses his fear of death and his desire to be rescued from his enemies. “Save me from the lion’s mouth: for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns” is a metaphorical description of the dangers he faces and his confidence in God’s ability to deliver him. While the “unicorns” may refer to wild oxen, the imagery emphasizes the Psalmist’s belief in God’s power to protect him from even the most formidable adversaries. This passage reminds us to never give up hope, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. We can draw strength from the example of Christ, who prayed fervently in the Garden of Gethsemane, even knowing that His crucifixion was imminent.

Psalm 22:22 (KJV)

I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.

Here, the tone shifts dramatically from lament to praise. The Psalmist expresses his intention to declare God’s name and praise Him in the midst of the congregation. This foreshadows the resurrection and the subsequent proclamation of the Gospel to the nations. “I will declare thy name unto my brethren” can be interpreted as Christ declaring the Father’s name to His disciples after His resurrection. “In the midst of the congregation will I praise thee” anticipates the worship of the Church, where believers gather to praise God for His salvation. This verse highlights the importance of sharing our faith with others and of participating in corporate worship. The Coptic Orthodox Church places great emphasis on the communal nature of faith, recognizing that we are all members of the Body of Christ and that we are called to support and encourage one another in our spiritual journey.

Psalm 22:23-24 (KJV)

Ye that fear the Lord, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel. For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.

The Psalmist calls upon all who fear the Lord to praise and glorify Him. He emphasizes that God has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, but has heard their cries for help. This is a powerful affirmation of God’s compassion and His willingness to respond to the needs of those who suffer. The phrase “he hath not hid his face from him” suggests that God is always present with those who are suffering, even when they cannot perceive His presence. This passage reminds us that God cares deeply about our pain and that He is always ready to listen to our prayers. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that suffering can be a means of spiritual growth and that God can use our trials to draw us closer to Himself. We are called to trust in His love and to believe that He will ultimately bring good out of our suffering.

Psalm 22:25-26 (KJV)

My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear him. The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the Lord that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.

The Psalmist reiterates his intention to praise God in the “great congregation” and to fulfill his vows. He proclaims that “the meek shall eat and be satisfied,” suggesting that God will provide for the needs of those who humble themselves before Him. “They shall praise the Lord that seek him: your heart shall live for ever” emphasizes the importance of seeking God and the promise of eternal life for those who do. This passage highlights the connection between humility, gratitude, and spiritual fulfillment. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that humility is the foundation of all virtue and that it is essential for drawing near to God. We are called to cultivate a spirit of humility and to give thanks to God for all that He has done for us. This passage also anticipates the Eucharist, where believers partake of the Body and Blood of Christ and are nourished spiritually.

Psalm 22:27-28 (KJV)

All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.

The Psalmist prophesies that “all the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord.” This is a powerful vision of global evangelization and the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. “All the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee” suggests that people from every tribe and tongue will come to know and worship the true God. “For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations” affirms God’s sovereignty over all creation and His ultimate authority over all nations. This passage underscores the missionary mandate of the Church and our responsibility to share the Gospel with the world. The Coptic Orthodox Church has a long history of missionary activity, particularly in Africa, and continues to be committed to spreading the Gospel to all nations. We are called to pray for the salvation of the world and to support the Church’s missionary efforts.

Psalm 22:29-31 (KJV)

All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him: and none can keep alive his own soul. A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this.

The final verses of Psalm 22 affirm the universal dominion of God and the enduring legacy of faith. “All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him” suggests that both the rich and the poor, the powerful and the weak, will ultimately acknowledge God’s sovereignty. “And none can keep alive his own soul” reminds us of the limitations of human power and the necessity of relying on God’s grace for salvation. “A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation” refers to the future generations who will continue to worship and serve God. “They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this” affirms the enduring impact of God’s saving work and the importance of passing on our faith to future generations. This passage concludes with a note of hope and assurance, reminding us that God’s kingdom will ultimately prevail and that His righteousness will be declared to all nations. The Coptic Orthodox Church places great emphasis on the importance of catechesis and the passing on of the faith to children and young people. We are called to be faithful stewards of the Gospel and to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to know and love God.

💡 Key Reflections and Teachings

From the depths of despair to the heights of praise, Psalm 22 offers profound insights into the nature of suffering, faith, and God’s unwavering love. Here are some key reflections:

• ✨ Suffering and Faith: Even in moments of profound anguish and apparent abandonment, faith in God’s holiness and past faithfulness can provide solace.
• 📖 Prophetic Significance: Psalm 22 is a powerful testament to the prophetic nature of Scripture, foreshadowing the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ.
• 🕊️ Universality of God’s Kingdom: The Psalm culminates in a vision of global evangelization and the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom, encompassing all nations and generations.
• 💡 Humility and Gratitude: Humility and gratitude are essential for drawing near to God and experiencing spiritual fulfillment.
• 📜 Enduring Legacy of Faith: Passing on our faith to future generations is crucial for ensuring the continuity of God’s kingdom on earth.
• 🙏 God Hears Our Cries: We can find solace in that He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither has He hid His face from him; but when He cried unto him, He heard.

❓ FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Psalm 22:

• Q: Why is Psalm 22 considered a Messianic Psalm?

  A: Because it contains detailed prophecies that were fulfilled in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, including the piercing of His hands and feet, the dividing of His garments, and His cry of abandonment on the cross.

• Q: How can I apply the lessons of Psalm 22 to my own life when I’m facing suffering?

  A: Remember God’s past faithfulness, cry out to Him in prayer, trust in His sovereignty, and seek solace in the community of faith. Focus on the shift of the Psalm, from pain to promise of praise.

• Q: What does the Coptic Orthodox Church teach about the meaning of suffering?

  A: The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that suffering can be a means of spiritual purification, a participation in the sufferings of Christ, and an opportunity to draw closer to God. It is not necessarily a punishment for sin, but rather a chance to grow in faith and love.

• Q: How does Psalm 22 relate to the Eucharist?

  A: Psalm 22:26, “The meek shall eat and be satisfied,” can be interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Eucharist, where believers partake of the Body and Blood of Christ and are nourished spiritually. Additionally, the theme of sacrifice and redemption resonates deeply with the Eucharistic celebration.

🙏 Conclusion

Psalm 22, a profound lament turned into a triumphant declaration of hope, offers timeless lessons for believers navigating the complexities of life. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, when we feel utterly forsaken, we are not alone. God hears our cries, He understands our pain, and He is ultimately in control. The Psalm’s intricate prophecies, fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, strengthen our faith and provide a solid foundation for our hope. As we contemplate the suffering of Christ, mirrored in the Psalmist’s anguish, we are called to embrace humility, cultivate gratitude, and persevere in prayer. This profound chapter teaches us the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness, of sharing our faith with others, and of trusting in His ultimate victory. Let Psalm 22 be a source of comfort, guidance, and unwavering hope as we journey through the trials and triumphs of life. Now that you are ready to build the body of Christ with your community, consider a platform to create a beautiful website, like DoHost.

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Psalm 22, Messianic Prophecy, Suffering, Crucifixion, Lament, Hope, Faith, Coptic Orthodox, Church Fathers, Spiritual Growth

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Uncover the depths of Psalm 22: “My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?” Explore verse-by-verse commentary, Coptic Orthodox insights, and practical spiritual applications for enduring faith amidst suffering. Find guidance today!