Finding Divine Justice: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 35

Executive Summary

Psalm 35, a potent lament and plea for divine intervention, reveals David’s desperate cry for deliverance from malicious enemies. As we delve into “Finding Divine Justice,” we’ll see how this psalm echoes the spiritual battles faced by believers throughout the ages. From its fervent appeal for God’s active defense to its stark depiction of human wickedness, Psalm 35 resonates deeply within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. Drawing upon Patristic insights and exploring the psalm’s historical context, we uncover profound lessons about trusting in God’s justice, persevering through persecution, and living a life of unwavering faith. This commentary will illuminate the ways in which this ancient prayer continues to speak powerfully to the challenges and triumphs of the modern Christian, reminding us that divine protection is always available to those who seek it.

Psalm 35 is a fervent prayer for deliverance, capturing David’s impassioned plea against his unjust adversaries. This psalm, reflecting the struggles of the righteous against the wicked, provides a powerful lens through which to understand the enduring quest for “Finding Divine Justice.” In the following verses, we will explore its themes of divine protection, vindication, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Commentary Sections

Verse 1

Hebrew: רִיבָה יְהֹוָה אֶת־יְרִיבַי לְחַם אֶת־לֹחֲמָי
KJV: Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.
NKJV: Plead my cause, O LORD, with those who strive with me; Fight against those who fight against me.

David begins with an urgent plea to God, imploring Him to “plead my cause.” This is not merely a request for help, but a fervent demand for God to actively engage in the conflict. The phrase “fight against them that fight against me” emphasizes the aggressive nature of David’s enemies. We, too, should bring our battles before the Lord, trusting in His might to defend us against spiritual and earthly adversaries. Let’s remember Abba Anthony’s wisdom: “Ἀεὶ ἔχετε τὸν φόβον τοῦ Θεοῦ πρὸ ὀφθαλμῶν ὑμῶν, καὶ μνημονεύετε τῶν ἐντολῶν αὐτοῦ” (Always have the fear of God before your eyes, and remember His commandments – *Vita Antonii*, 16). This fear is the foundation of righteous action and trust in God’s protection. For any sort of protection for example consider checking out our security services with Dohost Cybersecurity.

Spiritual Application: When faced with injustice or opposition, remember to first turn to God in prayer, asking for His intervention and guidance.

Verse 2

Hebrew: הַחֲזֵק מָגֵן וְצִנָּה וְקוּמָה בְּעֶזְרָתִי
KJV: Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help.
NKJV: Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for my help.

David intensifies his plea, asking God to arm Himself with “shield and buckler.” This is a powerful image of God as a warrior, actively defending His servant. The buckler, a smaller shield used for close combat, and the larger shield signify God’s comprehensive protection. This imagery reminds us that God is not a passive observer, but an active participant in our lives. As St. Athanasius wrote, “Ὁ γὰρ Λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ διὰ τὴν ἰδίαν ἀγαθότητα, ἐπιδημήσας ἡμῖν, οὐκ ἔδωκε μόνον τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὴν ἀθανασίαν ἐχαρίσατο” (For the Word of God, by His own goodness, having visited us, not only granted us the forgiveness of sins, but also bestowed immortality – *De Incarnatione*, 9). God’s active involvement secures our salvation and eternal life.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate unwavering faith in God’s active presence and protection. Visualize Him as your shield, guarding you against harm.

Verse 3

Hebrew: וְהָרֵק חֲנִית וּסְגֹר לִקְרַאת רֹדְפָי אֱמֹר לְנַפְשִׁי יְשֻׁעָתֵךְ אָנִי
KJV: Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.
NKJV: Also draw out the spear, and stop those who pursue me. Say to my soul, “I am your salvation.”

The imagery shifts to the spear, a weapon of offense. David asks God to “stop the way” of his persecutors. However, the most profound part of this verse is God’s reassurance: “Say to my soul, ‘I am your salvation.'” This is a personal declaration of God’s presence and deliverance. This divine reassurance is crucial for overcoming fear and doubt. St. Cyril of Alexandria emphasizes the importance of this intimate relationship: “Δεῖ γὰρ ἡμᾶς προσκολλᾶσθαι τῷ Θεῷ διὰ τῆς πίστεως καὶ τῆς ἀγάπης” (For we must cleave to God through faith and love – *Commentary on John*, 1.4). Faith and love are the bonds that secure our salvation.

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s personal reassurance in times of trouble. Meditate on His promise of salvation and allow it to bring peace to your soul.

Verses 4-6: The Shame of the Wicked

Hebrew: יֵבֹשׁוּ וְיִכָּלְמוּ מְבַקְשֵׁי נַפְשִׁי יִסֹּגוּ אָחוֹר וְיַחְפְּרוּ חֹשְׁבֵי רָעָתִי׃ יִהְיוּ כְּמֹץ לִפְנֵי־רוּחַ וּמַלְאַךְ יְהֹוָה דּוֹחֶה׃ יְהִי־דַרְכָּם חֹשֶׁךְ וַחֲלַקְלַקּוֹת וּמַלְאַךְ יְהֹוָה רֹדְפָם׃
KJV: Let them be confounded and put to shame that seek after my soul: let them be turned back and brought to confusion that devise my hurt. Let them be as chaff before the wind: and let the angel of the LORD scatter them. Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them.
NKJV: Let them be confounded and ashamed who seek my life; Let them be turned back and brought to confusion Who plot my hurt. Let them be like chaff before the wind, And let the angel of the LORD drive them on. Let their way be dark and slippery, And let the angel of the LORD pursue them.

Here, David calls down divine judgment upon his enemies. He prays that they be “confounded and ashamed,” that they be scattered like “chaff before the wind,” and that their path be “dark and slippery.” This is a stark contrast to the light and security that believers find in God. The presence of “the angel of the Lord” driving them on signifies divine retribution. The imagery here evokes the power of God to utterly destroy those who plot against the righteous. We see a similar theme in the deuterocanonical book of Wisdom of Solomon where the ungodly are depicted as being tormented by visions and pursued by divine wrath (Wisdom 17:14-20).

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice, even when it seems delayed. Remember that evil will ultimately be defeated, and the wicked will face their consequences.

Verse 7

Hebrew: כִּי־חִנָּם טָמְנוּ־לִי שַׁחַת רִשְׁתָּם חִנָּם חָפְרוּ לְנַפְשִׁי׃
KJV: For without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit, which without cause they have digged for my soul.
NKJV: For without cause they have hidden their net for me in a pit, Which they have dug for my soul.

David emphasizes the unprovoked nature of the attack. His enemies “without cause” have laid a trap for him. This underscores the injustice he is experiencing and highlights the malicious intent of his adversaries. This sense of betrayal and unwarranted persecution is something many Christians will resonate with. Remember the words of St. Paul: “Πάντες δὲ οἱ θέλοντες ζῆν εὐσεβῶς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διωχθήσονται” (Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution – 2 Timothy 3:12). This verse reminds us that persecution is often a part of the Christian journey.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that unwarranted attacks are often a part of the spiritual battle. Find comfort in knowing that God sees the injustice and will ultimately vindicate the righteous.

Verse 8-10: The Unexpected Downfall

Hebrew: תְּבוֹאֵהוּ שׁוֹאָה לֹא־יֵדָע וְרִשְׁתּוֹ אֲשֶׁר־טָמַן תִּלְכְּדוֹ בְּשׁוֹאָה יִפָּל־בָּהּ׃ וְנַפְשִׁי תָּגִיל בַּיהֹוָה תָּשִׂישׂ בִּישׁוּעָתוֹ׃ כָּל־עַצְמוֹתַי תֹּאמַרְנָה יְהֹוָה מִי כָמוֹךָ מַצִּיל עָנִי מֵחָזָק מִמֶּנּוּ וְעָנִי וְאֶבְיוֹן מִגֹּזְלוֹ׃
KJV: Let destruction come upon him at unawares; and let his net that he hath hid catch himself: into that very destruction let him fall. And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in his salvation. All my bones shall say, LORD, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?
NKJV: Let destruction come upon him unexpectedly, And let the net which he has hidden catch himself; Into that very destruction let him fall. And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD; It shall rejoice in His salvation. All my bones shall say, “LORD, who is like You, Delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, The poor and needy from him who plunders him?”

The tables turn dramatically. David prays that the destruction his enemies planned for him will instead fall upon themselves. This is a powerful expression of divine justice, where the wicked are caught in their own traps. In contrast, David declares that his “soul shall be joyful in the LORD” and that “all my bones shall say, ‘LORD, who is like you?'” This joy and praise are a testament to God’s faithfulness and power to deliver the oppressed. This also echoes the sentiment found in the Song of the Three Holy Children from the Book of Daniel, where all creation is called upon to praise God for his mighty deeds (Daniel 3:52-90, deuterocanonical).

Spiritual Application: Have faith that God will turn the schemes of the wicked against themselves. Focus on praising and thanking God for His deliverance.

Verses 11-16: False Accusations and Mockery

Hebrew: יְקוּמוּן עֵדִים חֲמָס יְשָׁאוּלֻנִי אֲשֶׁר לֹא־יָדָעְתִּי׃ יְשַׁלְּמוּנִי רָעָה תַּחַת טוֹבָה שְׁכוֹל לְנַפְשִׁי׃ וַאֲנִי בַּחֲלוֹתָם לְבוּשִׁי שָׂק עִנֵּיתִי בַצּוֹם נַפְשִׁי וּתְפִלָּתִי עַל־חֵיקִי תָשׁוּב׃ כְּרֵעַ כְּאָח לִי הִתְהַלָּכְתִּי כַּאֲבֵל אֵם קֹדֵר שַׁחוֹתִי׃ וּבְצַלְעִי שָׂמְחוּ וְנֶאֶסָּפוּ נֶאֶסְפוּ עָלַי נֵכִים וְלֹא־יָדַעְתִּי קָרְעוּ וְלֹא־דָּמּוּ׃ בְּחַנְפֵי לַעֲגֵי מָעוֹג חָרֹק עָלַי שִׁנֵּימוֹ׃
KJV: False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not. They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom. I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not: With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.
NKJV: Malicious witnesses rise up; They ask me of things that I do not know. They reward me evil for good, To the sorrow of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; And my prayer would return to my own heart. I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother; I bowed down heavily, as one who mourns for his mother. But in my adversity they rejoiced And gathered together; Attackers gathered against me, and I did not know it; They tore at me and did not cease. With ungodly mockers at feasts They gnashed at me with their teeth.

David describes the depths of his suffering. He is confronted by “false witnesses” and repaid with “evil for good.” He recounts how he mourned and prayed for his enemies when they were sick, yet they rejoice in his adversity. This highlights the stark contrast between David’s righteousness and the wickedness of his accusers. The hypocrisy of his enemies is especially galling, as they mock him even while he suffers. This resonates with the experiences of the early Christians who were often falsely accused and persecuted for their faith. We see a parallel in the suffering of Christ, who was also betrayed and mocked by those He came to save.

Spiritual Application: Respond to evil with goodness, even when it is difficult. Remember that God sees your suffering and will reward your faithfulness. Do not be surprised by betrayal or false accusations. Instead, focus on emulating the virtues of Christ and enduring with patience.

Verses 17-18: A Plea for Deliverance From Their Rage

Hebrew: אֲדֹנָי כַּמָּה תִרְאֶה הָשִׁיבָה נַפְשִׁי מִשֹּׁאֵיהֶם מִכְּפִירִים יְחִידָתִי׃ אוֹדְךָ בְּקָהָל רָב בְּעַם עָצוּם אֲהַלְלֶךָּ׃
KJV: Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions. I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people.
NKJV: Lord, how long will You look on? Rescue me from their destructions, My precious life from the lions. I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people.

In a moment of deep anguish, David cries out, “Lord, how long will You look on?” This question echoes the cries of the oppressed throughout history, questioning God’s apparent silence in the face of suffering. Yet, even in his distress, David affirms his faith, asking God to “rescue my soul from their destructions.” He pledges to give thanks and praise God in the “great congregation.” This highlights the importance of public worship and communal thanksgiving as a response to God’s deliverance. God is not deaf to us, but He is always there to listen and guide us towards the correct path.

Spiritual Application: Even when you feel abandoned, continue to cry out to God. Trust that He hears your prayers and will ultimately deliver you. Make a commitment to publicly give thanks for His blessings.

Verses 19-28: Continued Plea for Vindications

The remaining verses reiterate David’s desire for vindication and his enemies’ ultimate downfall. He paints vivid imagery of their malice and his hope for their shame and confusion. He concludes with a reaffirmation that his tongue shall speak of God’s righteousness and praise Him all day long.

Spiritual Application: Be steadfast in your prayers for vindication. Know that God will always ultimately triumph over evil. Focus on continuously giving Him praise and thanksgiving.

Subtopic Sections

The Significance of “Righteousness” in Psalm 35

The concept of righteousness permeates Psalm 35. David appeals to God’s righteousness as the basis for his plea for deliverance. But what does “righteousness” truly mean in this context?

• Moral Integrity: David’s righteousness stems from his commitment to living according to God’s commandments.
• Justice: It refers to God’s inherent fairness and His commitment to upholding justice in the world.
• Deliverance: Righteousness is linked to God’s act of delivering the oppressed from the hands of their enemies.
• Divine Character: God’s righteousness is not just an action but reflects his innate character.
• Moral Compass: By adhering to a moral compass, David knew that the lord was righteous.

Finding Strength in Lament

Psalm 35 is, at its core, a lament. However, within this lament lies a profound source of strength for believers.

• Expression of Pain: Lament allows us to honestly express our pain and suffering to God.
• Affirmation of Faith: Even in lament, we affirm our belief in God’s power and goodness.
• Release of Emotions: Lament provides a healthy outlet for processing difficult emotions.
• Foundation of Healing: Acknowledging our pain is the first step toward healing and restoration.
• Spiritual Growth: Trusting that God is righteous allows for spiritual growth.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why does David seem to call down curses upon his enemies in Psalm 35? Is this Christian?

A: David’s language can seem harsh to modern readers, but it’s important to understand the historical context. These are not personal vendettas, but pleas for divine justice. He is not acting out of personal hatred, but rather trusting God to execute justice. This aligns with the Old Testament concept of collective responsibility and the belief that God will ultimately vindicate the righteous.

Q: How can I apply the lessons of Psalm 35 in my own life today?

A: First, emulate David’s unwavering faith in God’s protection and justice. Second, find strength in prayer and lament during times of adversity. Third, strive to respond to evil with goodness, even when it is difficult. Finally, commit to publicly thanking and praising God for His blessings and deliverance.

Q: What are the “nets” and “pits” mentioned in Psalm 35?

A: These are metaphors for the traps and schemes that David’s enemies have set for him. They represent the deceitful and malicious intentions of those who seek to harm the righteous. Spiritually, these traps can be interpreted as temptations, false accusations, and other forms of spiritual attack.

Conclusion

In “Finding Divine Justice”, Psalm 35 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle between good and evil. David’s impassioned plea for divine intervention resonates deeply with believers who face persecution, injustice, and spiritual battles. Through this psalm, we learn to trust in God’s active presence, find strength in prayer and lament, and strive to emulate the virtues of Christ. The core message emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s justice and the ultimate vindication of the righteous, encouraging us to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that divine deliverance is always available to those who seek it. Ultimately, Psalm 35 teaches us to seek “Finding Divine Justice” and to rely on God’s righteousness in every aspect of our lives.

Tags

Psalm 35, David, Lament, Justice, Divine Intervention, Prayer, Persecution, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic Theology, Righteousness

Meta Description

Explore Psalm 35 with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Uncover the profound meaning of “Finding Divine Justice,” divine protection, and perseverance in faith. Discover Patristic insights and practical applications for modern Christians.