Part 331 (1/2)

Psalms Chapter 3

Domine, quid multiplicati.

The prophet's danger and delivery from his son Absalom: mystically, the pa.s.sion and resurrection of Christ.

3:1. The psalm of David when he fled from the face of his son Absalom.

3:2. Many say to my soul: There is no salavation for him in his G.o.d.

3:4. But thou, O Lord, art my protector, my glory, and the lifter up of my head.

3:5. I have cried to the Lord with my voice: and he hath heard me from his holy hill.

3:6. I have slept and have taken my rest: and I have risen up, because the Lord hath protected me.

3:7. I will not fear thousands of the people surrounding me: arise, O Lord; save me, O my G.o.d.

3:8. For thou hast struck all them who are my adversaries without cause: thou hast broken the teeth of sinners.

3:9. Salvation is of the Lord: and thy blessing is upon thy people.

Psalms Chapter 4

c.u.m invocarem.

The prophet teacheth us to flee to G.o.d in tribulation, with confidence in him.

4:1. Unto the end, in verses. A psalm for David.

Unto the end... Or, as St. Jerome renders it, victori, to him that overcometh: which some understand of the chief musician; to whom they suppose the psalms, which bear that t.i.tle, were given to be sung: we rather understand the psalms thus inscribed to refer to Christ, who is the end of the law, and the great conqueror of death and h.e.l.l, and to the New Testament.-Ibid. In verses, in carminibus... In the Hebrew, it is neghinoth, supposed by some to be a musical instrument, with which this psalm was to be sung.-Ibid. For David, or to David... That is, inspired to David himself, or to be sung.

4:2. When I called upon him, the G.o.d of my justice heard me: when I was in distress, thou hast enlarged me. Have mercy on me: and hear my prayer.

4:3. O ye sons of men, how long will you be dull of heart? why do you love vanity, and seek after lying?

4:4. Know ye also that the Lord hath made his holy one wonderful: the Lord will hear me when I shall cry unto him.

4:5. Be ye angry, and sin not: the things you say in your hearts, be sorry for them upon your beds.

4:6. Offer up the sacrifice of justice, and trust in the Lord: many say, Who sheweth us good things?

4:7. The light of thy countenance, O Lord, is signed upon us: thou hast given gladness in my heart.

4:8. By the fruit of their corn, their wine, and oil, they rest:

4:9. In peace in the self same I will sleep, and I will rest:

4:10. For thou, O Lord, singularly hast settled me in hope.

Psalms Chapter 5