THE PERPETUAL FAITHFULNESS OF GOD TO HIS PEOPLE This psalm is considered the fourth of the psalms that meditate in God’s dealings with His people along the history; which are psalms 78; 106; and 136. These psalms do not give a historical account, as much as they proclaim God’s compassion and faithfulness to fulfill His covenants and promises, despite the unfaithfulness of man. This psalm confirms that the promised land is a divine gift. It is a call to the people, as well as to every believer to search in the amazing works of God, whether as a Creator, or as a Care-taker of His people along the ages. It concentrates our sight upon God’s mercies; and exhorts us to be filled with hope in the faithful promises of God. Its occasion1: There is a wide difference among scholars as to the occasion of writing this psalm, 1- According to some, the author of this psalm is the prophet David, who sang it when he brought forth the ark of the covenant to the holy city (1 Chronicles 16: 8-22). 2- There is almost unanimity that the prophet David is the author of both psalm 104 and 105. 3- There is no word nor statement that indicate that the prophet David is not its author If Israel finds in their liberation from the bondage of the Pharaoh of Egypt, a fertile material to celebrate the work of God with them, the hearts of Christians would burn with more joy and exultation for their enjoyment of salvation from the bondage of the devil through the cross. A call to praise and to remember God’s mercies 1 - 6 God’s covenant and the promised land 7 - 15 Joseph in Egypt 16 – 22 The Israeli people in Egypt 23 - 38 The enjoyment of the promised inheritance 39 – 45 The title: 1 W. S. Plumer, Ps. 105. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 57 According to the Septuagint and the Coptic version, it came as “A decree of Alleluia“ The word “Alleluia” in Hebrew, is interpreted as (Praise the Lord). This is the first psalm with the title “Alleluia”, which exhorts the believers to praise God. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) 1- A CALL TO PRAISE AND TO REMEMBER GOD’S MERCIES: It is unique in this psalm, to find a meditation in the patriarch fathers, and God’s promises to them. The worship to the Lord concentrates in the verse: “Seek the Lord” (4). “Oh, Give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among His peoples” (1) According to the Septuagint and the Coptic version, it came as: “Confess to the Lord, Call upon His name, proclaim His deeds among the nations” The word translated as “Give thanks” is sometimes translated as “Praise”, and sometimes “Confess”; together with opening the heart wide to all the nations. “Make known His deeds among the peoples (the Gentiles)”. The literal translation according to the Greek language, as well as in some Latin versions, came as “Preach the gospel of His deeds among the Gentiles”. To whom would this be addressed except to the Evangelist, through the prophecy1? (St. Augustine) Shame on the Jews who say that His wonders and deeds were realized only in Israel2. (St. Jerome) According to St. John Chrysostom, and to St. Isichius, the Holy Spirit exhorts the believers to confess their transgressions, then call the name of the Lord; Namely, to praise Him from pure hearts and minds. According to St. Athanasius, the Holy Spirit commands and exhorts the apostles to make known the old and the new wonders of God to the Gentiles; on account of that the Jews have rejected and did not 1 On Ps. 105 (104). 2 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 58 receive this command, contrary to the Gentiles who have not known or heard about God’s old goodness to the Jews. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) “Sing to Him, Sing psalms to Him; Talk of all His wondrous works” (2) The verses 1 to 5 came as a call to the believers to worship the Lord, with the spirit of humility, with joy and gladness, yet without humiliation or despair. The psalmist calls upon us to praise, supplicate, pray, confess, sing, and boast in the holy name of the Lord; to meditate in His amazing deeds; to enjoy His divine presence, and the joyful debate with Him. Praise Him with the word, as well as with the work; As we sing with the voice, and play on a musical instrument, namely with our hands1. (St. Augustine) Whoever understands the holy Scripture, meditates in the law of the Lord, and elaborately thinks about the things of heaven, would sing to God. Moreover, whoever acquires every virtue, does all the good deeds, as though playing on the guitar of virtues, would sing praises to the Lord…. Psalm 107 says: “Those who go down to the sea in ships, who do business in great waters, they see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep” (Psalm 107: 23, 24). If we, in the ship of our bodies, sail through this non-corrupt life, without being sunk by a storm, nor destroyed to pieces by a rock, We can proclaim the amazing deeds of God. The greatest of wonders is indeed to sail blamelessly through this world2! (St. Jerome) “Glory to His holy name; Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord” (3) The apostle says: “He who glorifies, let him glorify in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1: 31). The believer finds in the glory of the Lord a true and faithful source for his inner heart, to rejoice, together with a true and increasing longing to seek the Lord, or to search for Him in the depth of the soul. “Glory to (or Boast in) His holy name”. This is a prophecy concerning the Gentiles; that we shall be called by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 On Ps. 105 (104). 2 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 59 “Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord”. … Let the hearts of the monks rejoice. … If the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice, how much more will the hearts of those who find Him? ….For once they find the Lord, they will certainly never let Him go1! (St. Jerome) Do not boast in much wealth and glory, and similar things of this mortal world, but in the holy name of the Lord, as Christ said; and never seek anything else beside Him. He seeks the Lord, he who believes in Him, who perpetually thinks of him, and who talks to Him in prayers. He who seeks the Lord this way, will definitely rejoice in his heart and soul. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) “Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore” (4) According to the Septuagint and the Coptic version, it came as: “Desire the Lord and Cherish Him, Seek His face forevermore”. Whoever seeks the Lord with joy and gladness of heart, and beseech Him to proclaim Himself to him, will experience His strength, and will perpetually enjoy His divine presence. If the old people, while coming out of the land of Egypt, have felt the mighty arm of the Lord, and experienced His divine presence; And if, once they reached the promised land, they always looked forward to the three major annual feasts, to set forth to Jerusalem to celebrate them with the gladness of heart; … The true Christians, having become a holy temple of the Lord, in their hearts, the Savior will perpetually transfigure, together with the Father and the Holy spirit. Indeed, faith will make us actually find Him; But hope will make us keep on seeking Him. Love binds faith and hope together: By faith, we shall find Him; and by hope we shall keep on seeking Him, until we see Him; to become so satisfied to search for him no more… For, unless faith reveals Him in this life, it would not be said: “Seek the Lord”…. And, If, by faith we find Him, but we do not diligently keep on seeking Him, it would not be said: “if we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance” (Romans 8: 25)… That is truly the meaning of the words: “Seek His face evermore” (4); Namely, revelation will not put an end to seeking; by which love is tested; but by the growth of love, seeking for Him will become more intense2. 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). 2 On Ps. 105 (104). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 60 (St. Augustine) “Seek the Lord and His strength” (4). Before seeking the Lord we were weak and disturbed; But now, having our hearts bound to Him, we have become strong and courageous. How much more would our perfection be, if we find Him?! “Seek His face evermore”. The Jews were instructed to appear before the Lord three times in the year (See Exodus 23: 17). But here, the prophet David exhorts the believers to perpetually, and unceasingly seek Him; the same way the New Testament commands us to “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5; 17; Luke 18: 1) 1. (St. Jerome) The church says to the Lord in the book of the Song of songs: “I am lovesick” (Songs 2: 5). Bearing in her heart the wound of love, she, with a burning desire, seeks to find healing through seeing the divine Physician2. (St. Gregory the Great) O sinners! Seek the Lord and His strength for the sake of hope. Seek His holy face with repentance evermore (4). Then, you will be sanctified by His presence; and “you will be cleansed from all your filthiness” (Ezekiel 36: 25). … O sinners! Hasten to the Lord, for He will take away your iniquity, and wipe out your sins. … He vows, saying: “As I live, says the Lord, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live” (Ezekiel 33: 11).; And: “I have stretched out my hands, all day long to a rebellious people” (Isaiah 65: 2); And, “Why should you die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33: 11); “Thus says the Lord of hosts: Return to Me, and I will return to you” (Zechariah 1: 3) 3. (St. Isaac the Syrian). Those who hold fast to the upright dogmas, seek the truth, and commit themselves to reading the holy Scripture. Together with their good works, they seek the Lord, seek His holy face, and will see him in spirit. Seeing the holy face of the Lord, is said about knowing Him. According to St. John Chrysostom, the face of God, is said about His appearance with His care, help, and support for His pious. 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). 2 Forty Gospel Homilies 25. 3 Ascetical Homilies 5: 76-77. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 61 According to St. dedymus the blind, the face of God is His only-begotten Son; for He is the image of the Person of the Father, and the ray of His glory… Whoever sees the Son, sees the Father. Those who fear God, seek Christ evermore; and by seeing Him, their hearts rejoice, and are strengthened in every good work. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) A question from a brother to an elderly fathe, saysr: [The Lord Jesus who seeks the lost sheep, teaches us how to seek the Shepherd, as well. … O blessed father, It is written: “Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore” (Psalm 105: 4). How can a sinner seek the Lord evermore? … For the sake of Him who gave you the wisdom, I beg you to teach us, so that we, as well would seek the face of the Lord; … Glory be to Him, forever, Amen]. To this, father Parsnovius answered, saying: [O, brother Othemius; I ask your love to labor together with me, praying to God the Philanthropic. … As to your question, how could we seek the Shepherd, Let me say to you: I kept supplicating to God concerning this very question. And He answers me, saying: If you purify your heart from the thoughts of the old man. I shall give you free answers to your questions; For my gifts find a place, and are given to the pious. … But, as long as your heart moves with anger, with the remembrance of evil, and with similar lusts of the old man, wisdom shall never enter into it… Therefore, In case you seriously wish for my gifts, “Throw all the (foreign) household goods out of the room” (Nehemiah 13: 8); Then, my own goods will come to you. Have you not heard the divine words: “No one can serve two masters?” (Matthew 6: 24). If you serve Me, you cannot serve Satan as well; and If you serve Satan, Do not serve Me. Therefore if someone intends to be counted as worthy of my gifts, let him keep my steps; for I, as a blameless Lamb, led to the slaughter, I received all passions without opening My mouth (See Isaiah 53: 7). I have exhorted you to be as meek as a dove; And yet, instead, you have the violence of evil lusts. … Have I not said to you: “Walk in the light of your fire”? (Isaiah 50: 11). (Paradise of the fathers) According to St. Pachum, We should seek the Lord, not only by the lips, but by the work as well. Seek the Lord like Abraham who, in obedience to Him, he offered his only son a sacrifice to God, who called him “My friend”. Seek the Lord like Joseph who wrestled against defilement, to become worthy to govern his enemies. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 62 Seek the Lord like Moses, who, through faithfully following God, he was counted worthy to receive the divine law, and to behold the (likeness) of God. Seek the Lord like Daniel, whom God taught great secrets, and saved him in the den of lions. Seek the Lord like the three saintly young men; who encountered Him in the furnace of fire. Seek the Lord like the righteous ‘Job’, whom God healed of his painful boils. Seek the Lord like Susanna; whom God saved from the hands of the wicked1. (St. Pachum) “Remember His marvelous works which He has done; His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth” (5) The psalmist asks us to remember God’s dealings with us, not the events, but the marvelous works He has done for the sake of our salvation; His wonders that proclaim His care for us; and the judgments of His mouth, which reveal His love, and His longing to debate with us, In His divine works, whether concerning the creation, or His salvation. and perpetual care for us; It so seems as though God’s heart and mind are only preoccupied with man, and He is always working to our account. And, in heaven, He is preparing a place for us, to come and take us together with Him. “O seed of Abraham, His servant, you children of Jacob, His chosen ones”(6) If God has made a covenant with Abraham, the father of fathers, and with Jacob, whom He has chosen, That covenant and that choice, were not just with Abraham and Jacob, but with us all, being the spiritual children of Abraham, and as the chosen ones of the Lord, to enjoy His righteousness and salvation. “If you were Abraham’s children , you would do the works of Abraham” (John 8: 39). That is why, those who are full of pride, are not counted as his children. Even if they are his seeds, yet they are servants, submitted to the law of fear; … They do not have the perfect love that casts out fear (See, 1 John 4:18). We are the children of Jacob, who craftily took the place of his older brother, and 1 Instructions, 1: 25. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 63 confiscated his first-birth rights…. “Many are called, but few chosen” (Matthew 20: 16) 1. (St. Jerome) Those saintly apostles who were born of the seeds of Abraham and Israel, and who also believed in Christ the Lord, are described by the Lord Himself, saying: “I have chosen you from the world” ( )..The Holy Spirit exhorts them to tell God’s marvels and His wonders to the Gentiles; and to make out of them children of Abraham and Jacob, according to faith, and servants of God. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) 2- GOD’S COVENANT AND THE PROMISED LAND: As the promised land refers to the heavenly Jerusalem, God’s promise concerning it to the early fathers became the foundation of the covenant in the Holy Book. All the divine gifts come forth from that free gift. God set a covenant, not only with Abraham, and Jacob; but with their descendants, being His people. The psalmist, confirming the initiation by God to set that covenant; confirms that He searches for us, chooses us, and sets us a people of his own. “He is the Lord our God; His judgment is in all the earth” (7) He did not say: “His judgment is in Israel”, but “His judgment is in all the earth”. If He has set a covenant with Abraham, and chosen Jacob; yet He is the Lord and Savior of all mankind, whom He calls to enjoy His eternal blessings in the only-begotten Son, by whose precious blood He presented a new eternal covenant; … “He did not leave Himself without witness” (Acts 14: 17) in all the earth. “His judgment is in all the earth”. …Is He God of the Jews only?” (Romans 3: 29) … Far from it!... “He is the Lord our God”, For the church in which His judgments are preached is all over the world2. (St. Augustine) God who, in the old, has given the law to the children of Israel alone, is the One who, by His incarnation, brought forth His judgments to all the universe through His apostles, to whom He said: “Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16: 15). (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). 2 On Ps. 105 (104). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 64 “He has remembered His covenant forever, the word which He commanded for a thousand generations” (8) Talking about His covenant with the fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, He remembers it for a thousand generations; For what He presented to the fathers, He presented to all the world for a thousand generations. Seeing in the figure 1000 a reference to eternity, some believe that what God presented to the fathers does not concern a certain time limit, nor a material promised land, but those covenants extend to the heavenly home for all believers along the generations. If God requests from us to remember His marvelous works with us, He, on His side remembers His covenants and promises; Proclaiming His faithfulness in His covenants; He will never forget what He promised. About this figure 1000, the apostle peter wrote: “With the Lord, one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” (2 Peter 3: 8).. And the prophet Daniel said: “A thousand thousands ministered to Him” (Daniel 7: 10). The word “thousand”, therefore, does not mean the known figure, but refers to a great multitude. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) “The covenant which He made to Abraham, and His oath to Isaac” (9) His covenant with Abraham came in Genesis 15: 17-18; And His oath to Isaac came in Genesis26: 3. Concerning the goal of those covenants, and oaths to the fathers and prophets, Zechariah the priest said: He has raised up a horn of salvation for us, in the house of His servant David, as He spoke by the mouths of His holy prophets, who have been since the world began” (Luke 1: 69-70). “And confirmed it to Jacob for a statute, To Israel for an everlasting covenant” (10) The confirmation of the covenant to Jacob came in Genesis 28: 10-15; and 35: 9-15. And in the latter occasion, God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. Those covenants with the fathers, although they bear a personal side, and a privilege, yet they are eternal. In essence, they are a covenant with humanity in Jesus Christ, to enjoy the glories and eternal inheritance in heaven. “Saying: ‘To you I will give the land of Canaan, as the allotment of your inheritance” (11) https://coptic-treasures.com/ 65 If those fathers have not got those covenants in their temporal life, but their descendants entered into the land of Canaan, which became the allotment of their inheritance. But what is greater, is that by Your incarnation You present to us Your kingdom dwelling in us, and open before us the gates of Your heavens to enjoy, being the heavenly Canaan, as the allotment of our eternal inheritance. “When they were but few in number, indeed very few, and strangers in it” (12) When they descended to Egypt, in the days of Joseph, they were very few strangers (66 individuals, according to Genesis 46: 26, or (70 individuals, including Joseph’s family, according to Exodus 1: 5). “When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people” (13) If the fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who entered into covenants with God, lived as nomads and strangers, with no place to settle down; It is befitting of their descendants, even after getting the promised land, to keep in mind their perpetual sojourn, as long as they are in this world;And it is befitting of us, as believers, to bear the same feelings. We cross over through many kingdoms on our way to the promised land1. (St. Jerome) “He permitted no one to do them wrong; Yes, He reproved king for their sakes” (14) So, the church sings in the eve of the feasts of the prophet Moses and Zechariah, the priest; namely, on the eighth of the Coptic month of ‘Tut’, when Pharaoh persecuted Moses; and when king Herod persecuted Zechariah; Yet neither of them was actually harmed; For Moses got the honor of God’s salvation through the exodus from the land of bondage; and Zechariah enjoyed being the father of St. John the Baptist, the angel who paved the way for Jesus the Lord. Although the life of believers are perpetually subjected to a multitude of troubles, yet God, with His care, keeps them against any harm, even though their oppressors may be kings and mighty rulers (See Genesis 12: 14-20; 20: 1-9; 26: 7-11, 26-33; 35: 5). 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 66 The Pharaoh of Egypt, and king Gerar, were both warned by heaven not to harm Abraham (Genesis 12: 17-20; 20: 3); another king was warned not to harm Isaac (Genesis 26: 8-11); and others not to harm Jacob (Genesis 32-33); while they were all few and strangers1. (St. Augustine) “Saying, ‘Do not touch My anointed ones; and do My prophets no harm” (15) Although we have not heard that any of the early fathers were anointed by a royal anointment, yet they were anointed by the Holy Spirit for a mission that concerns the salvation of mankind. St. Augustine wonders how could Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob be called anointed, although the anointment of kings were not yet known, by which they came to be called anointed?! … To which he himself responds by saying that in a secret way, they were counted as such. For although Christ, according to the flesh, has come from them; He Himself, namely, the Word, before incarnation, was before them; according to His words to the Jews: “Before Abraham was, I AM” (John 8: 58). The Lord has been proclaimed beforehand, on account of that it is impossible for anyone to reconcile with God outside that faith in Jesus Christ, whether before or after His incarnation. This was clarified by the apostle Paul, by saying: “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Jesus Christ” (1 Timothy 2: 5). What a shame for the Jews to claim that, unless someone is anointed by a royal anointment, he would never be called “Christ”; and say accordingly, that our Lord should not be called “Christ”. Yet, they forgot that, before the law, although the great Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) were not anointed with a royal anointment, they were called ‘anointed’, on account of that they were anointed by the Holy Spirit. By denying to call our Lord “Christ”, they are, therefore adversaries to the Holy Scriptures2. (St. Jerome) Those enlightened (the baptized) bear the features of the power and image of Christ. Their likeness to the Word (Christ) is printed on them, and is realized in them through the confirmed knowledge and faith. By that, Christ is spiritually confirmed in everyone; and “the church “labors in birth again until Christ is formed in us” (See Galatians 4: 19). It is as though everyone of the saints, partaking of 1 On Ps. 105 (104). 2 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 67 Christ gives birth to a Christ. With such meaning it is written: “Do not touch My anointed ones. And do My prophets no harm” (15). Those who are baptized in Christ, through the fellowship of the Spirit, would, themselves, become as though they are other Christs1, (Father Theodosius of Philippi) “The Lord Jesus Christ will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body” (Philippians 3: 21); For “we have become partakers of Christ” (Hebrew 3: 14). You are truly called for Christ; and about you, God say: “Do not touch My anointed; And do My prophets no harm” (15). You have become “anointed” through receiving the seal of the Holy Spirit. All things have been done in you to be like (Christ); for you are an image of Christ. By going down into the River Jordan, He let the knowledge of His deity be known in its water; Then out of it He came, and on Him the Holy Spirit shone, and dwelt upon Him with perfection. For you, as well, coming out of the holy water of baptism, you have an anointment like that by which Christ was anointed. This is the Holy Spirit, about whom the blessed Isaiah said in his prophecy about the Person of the Lord: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me” (Isaiah 61: 1) 2. (St. Cyril of Jerusalem) It often happens that someone intends to do harm to someone else, but because it is not allowed by God, his counsel is of no avail. … The will of men are thus put under test … Many evil plots woven against the saintly fathers; Yet, because God did not allow for them to happen, no one could do them any harm; as it is written: “He permitted no one to do them wrong; Yes, He reproved kings for their sakes; saying: ‘Do not touch my anointed ones, and do my prophets no harm” (14-15). ,,, And intending to reveal His might, God even moves by compassion the hearts of those who have no compassion; according to what is written: “God had brought Daniel into the favor and good will of the chief of the eunuchs” (Daniel 1: 9). (St. Zosima) 3- JOSEPH IN EGYPT: 1 The Banquet of the Ten Virgins, 8: 8. 2 .1 ، الأسرار 3 https://coptic-treasures.com/ 68 “Joseph, while being a slave, was called to teach wisdom to kings, rulers, and elders” (16 – 22) Referring to the plagues in the land of Egypt, was not to show the hardness of Pharaoh’s heart, but to show the multi-sided power of God, and His dealings with His people. Moreover He called for a famine in the land. He destroyed all the provisions of bread” (16) Here, he talks about the famine, as a special messenger of God, whom He calls to deliver a certain message to the account of His believers. According to father Onesimus of Jerusalem, the psalmist here, refers to the famine that happened in the days of Joseph, to chastise the Egyptians, to get to know the true God through seeing Joseph, who sold them food; to know God, whom Joseph worshipped, as the true God, whom they should worship, as well. By saying: “all the provisions of bread’, the psalmist means that the land in Egypt has been deprived of wheat, and all other kinds of grains from which bread could be made. “He called for a famine in the land”. This may seen as contradictory to the divine care; But: Unless Joseph’s brothers envied him, and sold him, how could he go to Egypt? Unless the famine did happen, how could the early fathers go to Egypt, to be recognized by their brother Joseph? Without all those circumstances, how would Egypt be struck by the ten plagues? How could the people of God come out of the land of Egypt? How could water come out of the rock in the wilderness? How could all those secrets be realized in the wilderness as symbols of the (Crucified Lord Christ)? Unless Judas betrayed his Lord, how could we be saved? Unless the Jews doubted and crucified Him, how could we become believers? It so happened that Joseph came down to the land of Egypt, to give hospitality to his brothers, and to provide their households with food1. (St. Jerome) 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 69 All the events concerning Joseph came as symbols of, and prophecies about the Person of the Lord Christ, on many aspects. Joseph was persecuted by his brothers; … Joseph was glorified, and his brothers prostrated themselves before him, a realization of his dreams and visions. Joseph the persecuted was a symbol of Jesus the Persecuted. Joseph was clothed by his father with a multicolored robe; … And Jesus was clothed by His Father God with a body from the Virgin. Joseph was beloved by his father more than his brothers; …. and Jesus was the beloved Son of His Father God. Joseph saw visions and dreams, which were all realized in the Lord Jesus. Joseph has been a shepherd of sheep together with his brothers; …. And Jesus was the Head of Shepherds. Joseph was sent by his father to visit his brothers, who, when they saw him coming, they plotted to kill him; …. And when God the Father sent His Son Jesus to visit His brethren, the Jews, they said: “This is the heir, let us kill him and seize the inheritance” (Matthew 21-38) Joseph was cast by his brothers into a well; …. and Jesus was sent by His brethren down to dwell among the dead. Joseph came out of the well; …. And Jesus was risen from the dead. Joseph, after coming out of the well, got dominion over his brothers; …. And Jesus, after dwelling among the dead, was highly “exalted by His Father, and was given a name which is above every name” (Philippians 2: 9), for His brethren to serve Him, and for His enemies to submit under His feet. Joseph, after being recognized by his brethren, they were ashamed, and struck with awe and fear before his greatness; …. And when the Lord Jesus will come at the end of time, and proclaim His greatness, His brethren, who crucified Him, will be ashamed, struck with awe and fear before Him. Joseph was sold to Egypt through the counsel of his older brother Judah; …. And Jesus was delivered to the Jews on the hand of His disciple Judas Iscariot. Joseph, when sold by his brothers, he did not utter a word; …. And Jesus, did not utter a word in response to those who judged Him. Joseph was unjustly put in prison by his master; … And so was Jesus who was unjustly judged by His people. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 70 Joseph has forsaken his garment twice, the first time to his brothers, and the second time in the hand of his master’s wife; … And Jesus had his garments divided among His crucifiers. Joseph at thirty years of age, stood before Pharaoh, and became the master of whole land; …. And Jesus, at thirty years of age, came to the River Jordan to be baptized, then came out to start His preaching mission. Joseph sustained Egypt with bread; … And the Lord Jesus sustains the whole world with the bread of life. Joseph took the daughter of an evil priest to be his wife; … And the Lord Jesus betrothed for Himself the church out of the evil Gentiles. Joseph died and was buried in Egypt; …. and Jesus died and was buried in Jerusalem. Joseph’s bones were taken over by his brothers from Egypt; …. And Jesus was risen by His Father from the dead; and, clothed by His uncorrupted body, He ascended to heaven1. (St. Aphrahat, The Persian Savant) “He sent a man before them – Joseph, who was sold as a slave” (17) If Joseph was sold because of the envy of his own brothers, Yet it was God who allowed it to happen that way, that, according to the psalmist, it was God who sent him with an important mission to the account of himself, his brothers, and of their descendants. Being the whole Goodness, God uses the evils of men to do good. According to St. Augustine, the psalmist says: “He (God) sent a man before them”, although that man – Joseph -- went to Egypt because of the wickedness of his brothers; Yet God turned their wickedness into good; so that Joseph going to Egypt, was counted as a mission by God Himself. St. Augustine says: [We are committed to meditate in this very important issue; in how the evil and wicked works of men could be used by God in a good way. And on another aspect, how the good works of God could be used by the wicked in an evil way2]. “They hurt his feet with fetters, he was laid in irons” (18) Unjustly cast in prison because of the false claims of his master’s wife, Joseph’s soul, as well as his body were hurt; as though the iron chains shackled his whole being. 1 Demonstrations, 21: 9. 2 On Ps. 105 (104). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 71 According to the psalmist, “He was laid in irons”, a reference to that the bitterness that dwelt upon his soul, was worse than the iron chains into which his feet were put. This expression reminds us of what Simon the elder said to St. Mary the Mother of God: “a sword will pierce through your own soul” (Luke 2: 35); by the sword, he meant watching the passions of her Son and Lord, and the evil attitude of the Jewish leaderships against Him. Joseph was chained in fetters because he did not surrender to the seductions of the Egyptian woman. Despite his vulnerable young age (16 years). He refused to surrender to evil, for he feared more the danger on his own soul. “He was laid in irons”. The iron shackles of sin that kills the soul. The verse probably means that he was facing a grave danger; a false claim by his master’s wife, who was burning with desire toward him; according to what is written: “The hearts of all adulterers are like a furnace”. “Until the time that his word came to pass” (19); the word of the Lord Himself who saved him1. (St. Jerome) “Until the time that his word came to pass; The word of the Lord tested him” (19) By saying: “Until the time that his word came to pass”, he probably refers to the time designated by God to realize the dreams that Joseph has seen while in his father’s house; Or he probably refers to the time, two years later, after being forgotten by the cup-bearer of Pharaoh, whose dream Joseph interpreted for him. Anyway, everything has its own time in God’s mind, to fulfill His promises to His believers. According to the Septuagint and the Coptic version, it came as: “The word of the Lord burned him up”. “And the word of the Lord burned him up”. Unless he is burned up by the Holy Spirit, he would not be able to overcome the lust. The Spirit of the Lord, his God, burned up the fire of lust2. (St. Jerome) “The king sent and released him. The ruler of the people let him go free” (20) When the time came for his salvation from the prison, and for his enjoyment of glory, the king sent and released him, to get to know him. 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). 2 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 72 How much we need to resort to the King of kings, He who promised us, saying: “If the Son sets you free, You will be truly free”. He alone can set us free from the bondage of the devil, and the chains of sin. “The king sent and released him”. Historically, the king sent and released him; But according to another interpretation, he who is tempted by a filthy lust, would not be able to flee from it, unless God comes to release him1. (St. Jerome) “He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his possessions” (21) Pharaoh made Joseph the ruler of his kingdom, and even of the royal household (Genesis 41: 40). He did not just save him from his affliction, but turned his afflictions into glories and honors, that never came over his mind. “To bind his princes at his pleasure, and teach his elders wisdom” (22) Joseph was given authority, not only to dispense the material issues of the state, like storing and distributing wheat during famine, but over members of the royal court and officials of the state; all of which attentively listened and obeyed his commands, for fear of firm retribution. Here, his amazing personality was demonstrated; Despite the bitterness he tasted for so long years, because of the envy of his brothers, he remained the man with love for everyone, even for the heathen elders in the royal household, whom he taught wisdom, without fear of losing his position in the king’s court. But the more he gave to others, the more riches of God’s free gifts were added to the storehouses of his heart and mind It often happens that pretence of perseverance, would stir up more anger than words; that silence would provoke more reviles; and that the wounds of enemies are more readily endured than the crafty scoff of flattery of false friends; which are meant by the words of the psalmist: “to bind his princes at his pleasure” (22); and those said by the wise Solomon: “The words of the talebearer are like tasty trifles, and they go down into the inmost body” (Proverb 26: 22); and, “A man who flatters his neighbor, spreads a net for his feet” (Proverb 29: 5); and according to the prophet Jeremiah: “Their tongue is an arrow shot out; it speaks deceit; One speaks peaceably to his 1 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 73 neighbor with his mouth, but in his heart he lies in wait” (Jeremiah 9: 8) 1. (Father Yousef) 4- THE ISRAELI PEOPLE IN EGYPT: “Israel also came into Egypt, and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham” (23) “Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham”. The righteous man cannot perpetually dwell on earth, where he is only a sojourner2! (St. Jerome) “And He increased His people greatly, and made them stronger than their enemies” (24) Despite being in bondage in Egypt, the more humiliation they suffered on the hands of the Egyptians, the greater they increased, and the stronger they were made by God; according to what is written in the book of Exodus: “Then the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about 600,000 men on foot, besides children A mixed multitude went up with them also; and herds – a great deal of livestock” (Exodus 12: 37-38). “He increased His people greatly”. About 75 persons came down to Egypt; And 600, 000 came out3. (St. Jerome) “He turned their hearts to hate His people, to deal craftily with His servants” (25) The more they increased in number, the more jealous, envious, and fearful from them the Egyptians became. Through God’s allowance the hearts of the Egyptian king and his men got filled with hatred toward the Israelites. Yet it was not God who put hate in their hearts; but He rather lifted His hands up from their hearts to reveal what is inside them, and to let them put their hatred practically into work. “He sent Moses His servant, and Aaron He has chosen” (26) Here, the psalmist shows that the reason behind the success of the mission of Moses and Aaron, was God’s call for them, each of whom had his own role to fulfill God’s plan for His people. 1 Cassian, Conferences 16: 18. 2 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). 3 Homily 31 on Ps. 104 (105). https://coptic-treasures.com/ 74 “They performed His signs among them, and wonders in the land of Ham” (27) “He sent darkness, and made it dark, and they did not rebel against His words” (28) Here, the psalmist starts by the ninth plague concerning the darkness, contrary to their order in Exodus 7 to 11; and Psalm 78. Some interpret this, that ‘darkness’ generally refers to any unbearable calamity; While others believe that the psalmist started by this plague, on account of that it was so effective in provoking the people to abide to the commands of Moses and Aaron, whatever the cost is, to come out of their affliction. Yet, Pharaoh, after giving his consent to let the people go, he reversed his decision, the way he did with the plagues preceding it. He did not bring forth lions or tigers to devour them, but He scourged them gradually by successive plagues, increasing in intensity, for the following reasons: 1- To bring them forth to repentance, through the abundance of His mercy. 2- To demonstrate His power, that, by simpler and lighter ways He could confront strong enemies. 3- So that there would be no excuse for those who may say that, if He treated the Egyptians with the abundance of His mercy, and did not destroy them altogether, they would have become more lenient in their stand. 4- To let the Israelites, as well, realize His might, know how He loves them, and remember His grace toward them; And in case they are denied the divine gifts, they would feel their transgressions and repent. 5- To let all know that He is God, who created the world, made all elements obey Him; and to make this issue well known among all nations. (Father Onesimus of Jerusalem) “He turned their waters into blood, and killed their fish” (29) That was the first plague, when nature itself moved to confront the adversaries to the divine command (See Exodus 7: 19-25). Waters in the sea, river, wells, and drains, even those in their vessels, turned into blood; And lest they may assume that it is just a change of the color of the water, and not of its essence, He killed all fish in the waters. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 75 “Their land abounded with frogs, even in the chambers of their kings” (30) In Psalm 78: 45 it came as: “He sent … frogs, which destroyed them”; The bad smell of the dead frogs so corrupted the air, that it led to the perdition of many. He also referred to the entrance of frogs into the chambers of their king, to confirm that even the royal guards could not keep them out. “He spoke, and there came swarms of flies, and lice in their territory” (31) Here he refers to the third and the fourth plagues. “He gave them hail for rain, and flaming fire in their land” (32) According to some, God allowed for a kind of hail not previously known in Egypt, which depend on the River Nile and not on rain for irrigation. Fire here refers to violent thunders and lightening. In the book of Wisdom (Chapter 16), it came that there was a substantial change in the usual course of nature; and the hail that came down, did not quench the flaming fire, but made it more intense; and the stronger the fire became, the more hail came down. “He struck their vines also, and their fig trees, and splintered the trees of their territory” (33) Their gardens turned into barren wilderness, when God splintered all their trees. “He spoke, and locusts came, young locusts without number” (34) “And ate up all the vegetation in their land, and devoured the fruit of their ground” (35) That was the eighth plague (See Exodus 10: 12-15). “He also destroyed all the firstborn in their land; the first of all their strength” (36) That was the tenth and last of the plagues (See Exodus 12: 29- 30); the most horrible plague, which happened at midnight amid utter darkness. “He also brought them out with silver and gold; and there was none feeble among His tribes” (37) God let them have favor in the eyes of the Egyptians, who hastened to give them whatever they asked for of gold and silver vessels. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 76 The Lord brought them out with a strong hand and a mighty arm, that among them there was none too feeble nor sick to join the journey of exodus. God commanded the Israelites to borrow from their Egyptian neighbors silver and gold vessels; and made them come out of Egypt while the Egyptians were busy burying their dead. They came out rejoicing their freedom from the cruel bondage; while grief and weeping were the portion of the Egyptians for the perdition of their firstborn. Hence Moses said: “This is a vigil to be kept for the Lord by all the Israelites throughout their generations” (Exodus 12: 42)…All those things were secrets of the soul to be redeemed by the anticipated coming of the Lord Christ; on account of that, the word “Israel” is interpreted as (the mind) that beholds God, when it set free from the bondage of darkness; namely, spiritually from the Egyptians1. (St. Maccarius the Great) Having lost their natural weakness, their clothes and sandals, were not worn-out with time, their feet were not swollen from the long walk; and among them, there were no physicians, nor medications. The hot sun rays did not burn them, for a cloud formed a shade over their heads. A pillar of fire preceded their procession; which gave them light, and led them along the way through the wilderness, better than any human guide. They traveled on land, as well as in the sea; For contrary to nature, the roaring sea turned before them into dry land to cross over, And when the enemy chased them through it, it returned back to its normal status; Namely. for them it became a chariot, and for their enemy, it became a grave. The irrational sea, played for them the role of a guard, as well as that of an avenger; both in the same day2. (St. John Chrysostom) Who among you are “Theophilus” (in Greek) (Luke 1: 3), are “most excellent”, and very strong. There is no (feeble) among you. The Holy Book says about Israel: “There was none feeble among His tribes” (Psalm 105: 37). I dare to say that every “Theophilus” among you, is active, zealous, and has strength from God; a perfect understanding of truth, and 1 .47 : عظة 5 لا یستطیع أحد أن یؤذي إنسانًا مل لم یؤذ ھذا الإنسان ذاتھ. 2 https://coptic-treasures.com/ 77 of all the words of the gospel in Christ; to whom is the glory and dominion to the age of ages, Amen1. (The scholar Origen) “Egypt was glad when they departed, For the fear of them had fallen upon them” (38) God kept His people safe by so diverse and amazing ways, that as much as Pharaoh and his men have previously opposed their departure, they became glad when they did; and they even supported them, and provided them with everypossibility to do. 5- THE ENJOYMENT OF THE PROMISED INHERITANCE: In the last section, we saw how God provided His people with their material needs, of bread, meet, and water. Here, we see Him provide them with provisions for their souls; namely, with joy, and the gladness of heart. “He spread a cloud for a covering, and fire to give light in the night” (39) He let them need nothing; He cared for them day and night (Exodus 13: 21; Numbers 9: 16; 10: 34). He spread a cloud as a covering to protect them against the heat of the sun by day; And provided them with a pillar of fire to give them light in the darkness of the night. God became for them a Refuge and a Stronghold; as well as a Guide on the way. He reveals His work in us, and kindles a fire in our souls, if He finds them pure of the dampness of temporal lusts2. (St. Joseph Saba) “The people asked, and He brought quail, and satisfied them with the bread of heaven” (40) God made the barren wilderness, flow on His people with bread, meet, and water. Knowing what is for our benefit, the heavenly Father cares even for our carnal food; and intends to train us to enjoy the bread of heaven, and the food of angels. … On our side, we are committed to ask Him to feed us with what He sees befitting to our edification. 1 Homilies on Luke 1: 16. الرسالة العاشرة: 2 (ترجمة الرب سلیم دكاش الیسوعي). 2 https://coptic-treasures.com/ 78 “He opened the rock, and water gushed out; It ran in the dry places like a river” (41) This episode is mentioned by the prophet Moses in Exodus 17: 6; and Numbers 20: 11. What is that Rock, but the Lord Christ, by whose cross, He gushed for us springs of water of the Holy Spirit; and granted us to drink from the River that makes glad the city of God. “They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of your house; and You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures” (Psalm 36: 8). “There is a river whose stream shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High” (Psalm 46: 4). “He turned the sea into dry land; They went through the river on foot. There, we will rejoice in Him” (Psalm 66: 6). “He shall have dominion also from sea to sea; and from the River to the ends of the earth” (Psalm 72: 8). “She (the mighty cedar trees) sent out her boughs to the Sea, and her branches to the River” (Psalm 80: 11). “He opened the rock, and water gushed out, it ran in the dry places like a river” (Psalm 105: 41). “He shall drink of the brook by the wayside. Therefore He shall lift up the head” (Psalm 110: 7). Let us meditate in the words of the gospel before us. “The Jordan” symbolizes (going down). The word “Jared” (Genesis 5: 15), being literally close to the word “Jordan”, would mean the same thing (going down). “Jared was born to “Mahalalel”; in the days when the sons of God (came down), and took wives for themselves from the daughters of people (see Genesis 6: 1), We should understand the word “Jordan” as being the Word of God who became a body and a temple among us -- Jesus, our main Cornerstone -- who gives us His Manhood, which He has taken as an inheritance; That, having been ascended to the Godhead of the Son of God, has got cleansed, and received in Herself the pure and innocent dove of the Spirit, has got bound to her, as she cannot, any more, fly away from her. (The scholar Origen) “For He remembered His holy promise, and Abraham His servant” (42) https://coptic-treasures.com/ 79 After so long, as though in darkness, feeling bitterness, and confusion, the people were granted by God, the gladness of heart while departing from Egypt; that their souls got filled with joy and praise to God, for the sake of the richness of His grace. “He brought out His people with joy; His chosen ones with gladness” (43) “He gave them the lands of the Gentiles; and they inherited the labor of the nations” (44) In the fullness of time, when the cup of the idol-worshippers got completely full, they were driven out of their own lands, lost the labor of their hands, to be inherited by the believers, holy to Him. That is why, those who are enjoying the goods of this life, should wisely think that what they have got should exhort them toward a better life, lest they may lead them instead to a bitter eternal curse. … For this reason, God promised to give the land of Canaan to His people Israel, to exhort them, ultimately, to think about the eternal issues. … On account of this, those people, who were still unlearned, having tasted some of the temporary things, promised to them by God, came to trust and hope in those far off promises in the eternities. This is testified by the psalmist, who after saying: “He gave them the land of the Gentiles, and they inherited the labor of the nations”, he added1. “That they might observe His statutes, and keep His laws” (45) The ultimate goal of God’s works and wonders, is to exhort His believers to observe His statutes, and to keep His laws, in order to be worthy of being His holy children. 1 Pastoral Care, 3: 26. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 80 AN INSPIRATION FROM PSALM 105 LET ME REVEAL MYSELF TO YOU, WHO KNOWS MY DEPTHS,SO THAT YOU WOULD REVEAL YOUR SECRETS TO ME; FOR I STILL DO NOT KNOW YOU AS I SHOULD I confess to You all what I have in my depths; For I am a sinner, weak, and worthy of every chastisement Reveal Yourself to me, to make me perceive the secrets of Your love; I see You as the Forgiver of sins; and the Savior of my soul from corruption. I shall tell Your wonders to all the nations; For I love all mankind, and desire the salvation of everyone; My heart rejoices in You; and my depths sing praise to You; While asking for Your presence, and seek to recognize Your secrets; How much more would be the exultation of my whole being, when I see You dwell in me; And how much will be my joy, when all enjoy Your presence! I boast in Your name, O Holy One; Being a Christian, I am referred to You; For You are Christ, the Savior of the world; My depths seek You, Let the whole world experience Your amazing might. How exultant were the Jews, when they appeared before You in their feasts! Three times every year, they all went up to Your temple; While celebrating the feasts, they considered themselves as though in heaven; Now, having been incarnate, and counted as one of us; The whole world is exultant by Your perpetual presence in the midst of Your church; I do not wait for a feast to go up to Jerusalem; But I perpetually celebrate Your Kingdom inside me, as though in heaven; You are my unceasing and perpetual feast; I cry out in my depths that the whole world would experience the sweetness of Your presence; And all would enjoy unceasing prayers to You; And the heart of every man would be lifted up to the Higher Jerusalem. https://coptic-treasures.com/ 81 Together with the true humility, grant me the spirit of heavenly joy; I praise You; I sing to You; I thank You; and I confess to You; I supplicate to You; and unceasingly pray to You; I boast in Your holy name; and I meditate in Your works; I perpetually experience the sweetness of Your presence; I shall not cease to debate openly with You. Your dealings with me, and with all Your people are amazing! Your unceasing wonders make Your people unique; Your signs, are Your unceasing divine care; The judgments of Your mouth reveal Your exalted love for us; How shall we pay You back for the sake of Your amazing love for us? It is as though there are no one in heaven, nor on earth, except us! All creation marvel at Your love for mankind. You have made a covenant with our father Abraham; For us, his children, to enjoy that eternal covenant, as Your children; You have chosen our father Jacob, and made him firstborn; To set us as members in the heavenly church of the firstborns; All the covenants, the promises, and the vows, refer to Your incarnation and salvation. Our fathers were exultant by those joyful covenants with You; They perceived that they, in essence, are a revelation of Your love for all mankind; That they are eternal covenants, to be enjoyed by all generations through Your cross. To let them all experience the deposit of heaven; and the hope in the eternal glories; That they are personal covenants with every father; And that they are covenants for every believer along all generations; To let him taste Your exalted love. Our portion of inheritance is no more, land that flow with milk and honey; Which could be taken away from us; or we could be taken away from it; As it did happen when Israel and Judah were taken away by Assyria and Babylon; But our portion of inheritance became inside us; https://coptic-treasures.com/ 82 The deposit of the heavenly inheritance that the enemy can never be taken away from us. Your care for us in the land of our sojourn, and all along our journey in this life, is exalted; You may allow for us to go through afflictions; but You keep us against any harm; Mighty and cruel enemies may stand against us; but You rebuke them, and make their plots to no avail. You are whole goodness; You even turn the evil of the wicked into the good of many; “Out of the eater You (bring) something to eat; and out of the strong, You (bring) something sweet” Your promises are true and faithful; And Your care is exalted and amazing; Yet, we often hasten their fulfillment; And do not wait for the designated time according to Your divine plan. You allow for us to pass through afflictions that may seem extremely bitter; And we do not realize that they are the way to the glory and honor prepared for us1 That instead of the humiliation, weakness, and deprivation; You will grant us honor, strength, and mighty possibilities. You perpetually send leaders; Whom You choose to realize Your plans; And provide them with signs and wonders to support their mission; You even move the irrational nature to stand against Your opponents; Nature works to our account by Your command. You often let even Your opponents support us; You make them joyfully partake of the fulfillment of Your plan; And instead of oppression and violence, they become our helpers in our salvation. You personally guide the journey of our life to You; You protect and guard us against any strike; And guide us by Your light through the darkness of the world.
Welcome