Be Exalted, O God: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 57
✨ Executive Summary
Psalm 57, a *Miktam* of David when he fled from Saul in the cave, is a powerful cry for divine mercy and protection amidst profound distress. It is more than just a plea for deliverance; it is an affirmation of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. The Psalm moves from an initial expression of fear and vulnerability to a triumphant declaration of praise, culminating in a profound acknowledgment of God’s glory and majesty. This psalm offers spiritual guidance for the Christian facing adversity, encouraging steadfast faith, the rejection of deceit, and an unwavering focus on the Lord. It challenges us to find refuge in God’s unwavering faithfulness, as well as to praise Him in all circumstances. The call for God to “Be Exalted, O God, Above the Heavens” (ψαλμὸς τῷ Δαυΐδ, ὅτε ἀπέδρα ἀπὸ προσώπου Σαούλ ἐν τῷ σπηλαίῳ.) echoes throughout the ages, offering hope and assurance to those who trust in Him.
This Psalm’s message emphasizes seeking refuge in God’s mercy during times of peril, acknowledging His sovereignty in all circumstances. Today, as in David’s time, this message is vital. We must embrace David’s faith and depend on God’s protection when facing our own “Sauls”. This psalm serves as a timeless reminder of God’s unwavering presence and the assurance of His eventual victory. By internalizing these insights, we can emulate David’s unwavering devotion and experience the divine solace that transcends worldly challenges.
📖 Introduction
Psalm 57, a poignant prayer attributed to David during his flight from Saul in the cave, is a testament to unwavering faith amidst dire circumstances. It speaks to the universal human experience of fear, persecution, and the yearning for divine intervention. From the depths of his despair, David proclaims his trust in God’s mercy and expresses his unwavering hope for deliverance. “Be Exalted, O God, Above the Heavens” – this psalm is an invitation to explore the depths of God’s love and the boundless power of prayer, offering solace and guidance for believers facing their own trials and tribulations.
Commentary: Verse by Verse
Verse 1
Greek (LXX): Ἐλέησόν με, ὁ Θεός, ἐλέησόν με, ὅτι ἐπὶ σοὶ ἐπέστη ἡ ψυχή μου, καὶ ἐν τῇ σκιᾷ τῶν πτερύγων σου ἐλπιῶ, ἕως οὗ παρέλθῃ ἡ ἀνομία.
KJV: Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.
NKJV: Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge, Until these calamities have passed by.
David’s plea for mercy is a foundational prayer in the Coptic Orthodox tradition. It acknowledges human weakness and dependence on God’s grace. The phrase “in the shadow of Your wings” evokes a powerful image of divine protection, reminiscent of a mother bird sheltering her young. St. Athanasius, in his Letters, highlights this verse, stating: “Ὅτι ἐπὶ σοὶ ἐπέστη ἡ ψυχή μου, οὐκ ἐπὶ ἀνθρώπῳ, ἀλλ’ ἐπὶ τῷ Θεῷ τῶν ὅλων.” (“That my soul trusts in You, not in man, but in the God of all.”). This reliance on divine protection, rather than human strength, is a core tenet of our faith. The words also resonate with the image of the Cherubim overshadowing the Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of God’s presence and protection in the Old Testament.
Spiritual Application: When facing trials, seek refuge in God’s mercy and protection. Trust in His divine care, knowing that He will guide you through every storm.
Verse 2
Greek (LXX): Κεκράξομαι πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν τὸν ὕψιστον, τὸν Θεὸν τὸν εὐεργέτην μου.
KJV: I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me.
NKJV: I will cry out to God Most High, To God who performs all things for me.
David declares his intention to “cry out to God Most High”. The use of “Most High” (τὸν Θεὸν τὸν ὕψιστον) emphasizes God’s supreme authority and power. It is not a silent prayer, but a heartfelt cry, acknowledging God’s active role in his life – “God who performs all things for me” (τὸν Θεὸν τὸν εὐεργέτην μου). This acknowledgement of God as the one who “performs all things” aligns with the Coptic Orthodox understanding of divine providence. St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Psalms, writes: “Οὐδὲν γίνεται ἄνευ τῆς τοῦ Θεοῦ βουλῆς.” (“Nothing happens without the will of God.”). The verse also reminds us that even in the midst of our trials, God is working for our good.
Spiritual Application: Cultivate a habit of persistent prayer. Remember that God is sovereign and actively involved in your life. Trust that He is working all things for your ultimate good.
Verse 3
Greek (LXX): Ἀπέστειλεν ἐξ οὐρανοῦ καὶ ἔσωσέ με, ἔδωκεν εἰς ὀνειδισμὸν τοὺς καταπατοῦντάς με· διάψαλμα.
KJV: He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah.
NKJV: He shall send from heaven and save me; He reproaches the one who would swallow me up. Selah.
David expresses confidence that God will “send from heaven and save me”. This verse speaks of divine intervention, a direct act of God to deliver David from his enemies. The phrase “swallow me up” illustrates the overwhelming nature of the threat he faces. This reflects the Coptic Orthodox belief in God’s direct involvement in the lives of believers. The term “Selah” (διάψαλμα) is a musical interlude, a moment for reflection and contemplation on the preceding verses. It invites us to pause and consider the power and faithfulness of God.
Spiritual Application: Believe in the possibility of divine intervention. When facing overwhelming challenges, trust that God can send help from above.
Verse 4
Greek (LXX): Ἡ ψυχή μου ἐν μέσῳ λεόντων, ἐκοιμήθην τεταραγμένος· οἱ υἱοὶ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, οἱ ὀδόντες αὐτῶν ὅπλα καὶ βέλη, καὶ ἡ γλῶσσα αὐτῶν μάχαιρα ὀξεῖα.
KJV: My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
NKJV: My soul is among lions; I lie among those who are set on fire, Whose teeth are spears and arrows, And their tongue a sharp sword.
David vividly describes his perilous situation, comparing his enemies to “lions” with “teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.” This imagery highlights the destructive power of words and the danger of those who seek to harm him. The “fire” could also refer to the burning hatred and malice that fuels his persecutors. St. Basil the Great, in his homilies, often warns against the dangers of a deceitful tongue: “Γλῶσσα πονηρὰ θάνατον ἐργάζεται.” (“A wicked tongue works death.”). This verse underscores the importance of discernment and protection from those who seek to harm us physically or spiritually.
Spiritual Application: Be aware of the dangers of deceit and malicious gossip. Protect yourself from those who seek to harm you with their words or actions.
Verse 5
Greek (LXX): Ὑψώθητι ἐπὶ τοὺς οὐρανούς, ὁ Θεός, καὶ ἐπὶ πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἡ δόξα σου.
KJV: Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.
NKJV: Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth.
This is the central theme and refrain of the psalm. David calls for God to “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be above all the earth.” This is not merely a request but a declaration of God’s inherent glory and majesty. It recognizes that God’s greatness transcends earthly boundaries and extends to the highest heavens. This reflects the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on God’s supreme authority and holiness. This sentiment echoes throughout the Divine Liturgy, where we proclaim God’s glory and acknowledge His sovereignty over all creation.
Spiritual Application: Acknowledge God’s supremacy in all areas of your life. Let your actions and words reflect His glory and majesty.
Verse 6
Greek (LXX): Παγίδα ἡτοίμασαν τοῖς ποσίν μου καὶ κατέκαμψαν τὴν ψυχήν μου· ὤρυξαν πρὸ προσώπου μου βόθρον καὶ ἐνέπεσαν εἰς αὐτόν· διάψαλμα.
KJV: They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit before me, into the midst whereof they are fallen themselves. Selah.
NKJV: They have prepared a net for my steps; My soul is bowed down; They have dug a pit before me; Into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah.
David describes his enemies setting traps and digging pits for him, but ultimately falling into their own snares. This verse illustrates the principle of divine justice, where those who plot evil often suffer the consequences of their own actions. This concept is further expounded in the deuterocanonical book of Wisdom of Solomon 17:15-18, which speaks of the wicked being ensnared by their own wickedness. This is not merely a matter of chance but a manifestation of God’s righteous judgment. The “pit” could symbolize their own destruction.
Spiritual Application: Trust that God will ultimately bring justice. Do not be discouraged by the schemes of the wicked, for their plans will ultimately fail.
Verse 7
Greek (LXX): Ἑτοίμη ἡ καρδία μου, ὁ Θεός, ἑτοίμη ἡ καρδία μου· ᾄσομαι καὶ ψαλῶ ἐν τῇ δόξῃ μου.
KJV: My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.
NKJV: My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.
David declares, “My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast.” This unwavering resolve is the key to overcoming adversity. His heart is “fixed” (ἑτοίμη), meaning it is firmly rooted in faith and trust in God. He resolves to sing and give praise, even in the midst of his trials. This illustrates the importance of maintaining a positive and hopeful attitude, even when facing difficult circumstances. In Coptic Orthodox tradition, the heart is considered the center of spiritual life. A “fixed” heart signifies a deep commitment to God and a willingness to follow His will. St. Macarius the Great emphasizes the importance of guarding the heart from evil thoughts and temptations.
Spiritual Application: Cultivate a steadfast heart through prayer, scripture reading, and participation in the sacraments. Maintain a spirit of praise and thanksgiving, even in the midst of trials.
Verse 8
Greek (LXX): ἐξεγέρθητι, ἡ δόξα μου· ἐξεγέρθητε, ψαλτήριον καὶ κιθάρα· ἐξεγερθήσομαι πρὸς ὄρθρον.
KJV: Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early.
NKJV: Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken early.
David calls upon his “glory” (ἡ δόξα μου), which can be understood as his soul or his inner being, to awaken and praise God. He also calls upon musical instruments – “lute and harp” (ψαλτήριον καὶ κιθάρα) – to join in the worship. His promise to “awaken early” (ἐξεγερθήσομαι πρὸς ὄρθρον) signifies a dedication to seeking God first thing in the morning. This resonates with the Coptic Orthodox tradition of morning prayers and the importance of beginning the day with God. Early Church Fathers encourage waking up early to dedicate one’s mind and heart to God before worldly concerns consume the day.
Spiritual Application: Begin each day with prayer and worship. Dedicate your first thoughts and actions to God, seeking His guidance and blessing.
Verse 9
Greek (LXX): Ἐξομολογήσομαί σοι ἐν λαοῖς, Κύριε, ψαλῶ σοι ἐν ἔθνεσιν.
KJV: I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations.
NKJV: I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations.
David proclaims his intention to praise God “among the peoples” and “among the nations”. This verse speaks of evangelism and sharing one’s faith with others. It highlights the universal nature of God’s love and the desire to make Him known to all people. The Coptic Orthodox Church has a long history of missionary work, spreading the Gospel to various parts of the world. We are called to be witnesses for Christ, sharing the good news of salvation with those around us.
Spiritual Application: Share your faith with others. Be a witness for Christ, sharing the good news of salvation with those around you, whether through words or actions.
Verse 10
Greek (LXX): ὅτι ἐμεγαλύνθη ἕως τῶν οὐρανῶν τὸ ἔλεός σου καὶ ἕως τῶν νεφελῶν ἡ ἀλήθειά σου.
KJV: For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.
NKJV: For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens, And Your truth unto the clouds.
David emphasizes the vastness of God’s mercy and truth, reaching “unto the heavens” and “unto the clouds.” This verse reinforces the boundless nature of God’s love and faithfulness. No matter how great our sins or how difficult our circumstances, God’s mercy is always available to us. Similarly, His truth is unwavering and unchanging. This reflects the Coptic Orthodox understanding of God’s attributes as infinite and eternal.
Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s boundless mercy and unwavering truth. Know that His love is greater than any sin or trial you may face.
Verse 11
Greek (LXX): Ὑψώθητι ἐπὶ τοὺς οὐρανούς, ὁ Θεός, καὶ ἐπὶ πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἡ δόξα σου.
KJV: Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.
NKJV: Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth.
This verse reiterates the central theme of the psalm, a call for God to “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth.” The repetition emphasizes the importance of acknowledging God’s supremacy and glorifying Him in all aspects of our lives. This is not just a one-time declaration but a constant reminder of God’s greatness and our need to give Him praise. It echoes the Trisagion Hymn sung in the Coptic Orthodox Church, “Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us,” a constant reminder of God’s holiness and glory.
Spiritual Application: Make it your constant aim to glorify God in all that you do. Let your life be a reflection of His love and grace.
💡 Key Reflections
Reflecting on Psalm 57, we find several key teachings for our spiritual journey:
- 🕊️ **Refuge in God’s Mercy:** Seek shelter in God’s unwavering love and protection during times of adversity.
- 📖 **Persistent Prayer:** Cultivate a habit of fervent prayer, trusting in God’s sovereignty and active involvement in your life.
- ✨ **Divine Intervention:** Believe in the possibility of God’s direct intervention in your circumstances.
- 🛡️ **Discernment and Protection:** Be vigilant against deceit and malicious gossip, guarding yourself from those who seek to harm you.
- 🌟 **Steadfast Heart:** Develop a heart rooted in faith and trust in God, maintaining a spirit of praise and thanksgiving.
- 🌍 **Evangelism and Witness:** Share your faith with others, becoming a beacon of God’s love and truth in the world. Consider using doHost’s Website Builder to share your faith online.
❓ FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Psalm 57:
- Q: Why is Psalm 57 attributed to David fleeing from Saul in the cave?
A: The superscription of the psalm explicitly states its connection to David’s escape from Saul. This historical context shapes the psalm’s themes of fear, persecution, and reliance on God’s protection. - Q: What is the significance of the phrase “in the shadow of Your wings”?
A: This phrase symbolizes divine protection and care, drawing a parallel to a mother bird sheltering her young. It speaks of finding refuge and security in God’s presence. - Q: How can I apply the message of Psalm 57 to my daily life?
A: By seeking refuge in God’s mercy, cultivating a habit of prayer, trusting in divine intervention, and maintaining a steadfast heart, you can navigate life’s challenges with faith and hope. - Q: What does it mean to “Be Exalted, O God, Above the Heavens?”
A: To exalt God above the heavens means to acknowledge His supreme authority and glory, recognizing that He is greater than any earthly power or circumstance. It calls us to prioritize God in our lives and give Him the honor and praise He deserves.
🕊️ Conclusion
Psalm 57 offers a timeless message of hope and encouragement for believers facing adversity. By emulating David’s unwavering faith, we can find solace in God’s mercy, trust in His protection, and praise Him in all circumstances. The call to “Be Exalted, O God, Above the Heavens” is not just a prayer but a declaration of our commitment to living a life that glorifies God. This passage reminds us that God is always with us, even in the darkest of caves. May we always seek refuge in His loving arms, trust in His unfailing promises, and declare His glory to the ends of the earth. The call to “Be Exalted, O God, Above the Heavens” continues to echo in our hearts. Let’s allow that echo to inspire our actions, choices and devotion.