My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, and from the words of my groaning?
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 1. David. This psalm most beautifully describes the consolation which the just find in God’s protection. Bible.—It may be applied to the Israelites in the desert, (Chal.) to David persecuted by Saul, or rather Calmet. settled quietly upon the throne, (Muis.) or to the Jews returned from Babylon. Saint Athanasius Calmet.—The Fathers explain it mystically of Jesus Christ, the Shepherd of our souls. Didymus, Saint Augustine and so forth The allegories of a shepherd and of a person giving a feast to his guests, are well supported. Calmet.—Ruleth, in Hebrew Is my shepherd; that is to feed, guide, and govern me. Challoner.—Septuagint ποιμαινει, pascit, as Saint Augustine and Saint Jerome read. Saint Gregory Thaumaturgus understands this of the angel guardian. Paneg. in Orig.—Jesus Christ conducts us into the pastures of his Church, and feeds us Worthington. with his own body, and so forth Calmet.—The saints never complain of want. Bert.