ARGUMENT

ARG. THOMAS. That CHRIST was born from the spiritual womb of GOD the FATHER, before the morning star. The Voice of the Church and of CHRIST to the FATHER. The Voice of the Church concerning the FATHER and the SON, or concerning the Nativity of CHRIST. The Promise of the FATHER to the SON. A prophecy of future victory, and concerning the Advent or Incarnation of the LORD. The Voice of the Church praising GOD. It is sung concerning CHRIST the LORD, as He Himself explains to the Pharisees. Concerning the Birthday of the LORD.

VEN. BEDE. This Psalm sings most fully and briefly of the Incarnation and Godhead of the LORD. In the first verse the Prophet narrates what the FATHER said unto the SON, showing at once the nature of Godhead and Manhood, The Lord said, &c. In the second division, the FATHER, to some extent, according to the measure of our capacity, declares the nature of that Godhead: With Thee the beginning. In the third part, the Prophet again speaks until the end, again showing the form of His Manhood, The Lord sware, &c.

SYRIAC PSALTER. Of David, concerning the throne of the LORD, and His glorious power. A prophecy also of CHRIST, and of His triumph over the adversary.

EUSEBIUS OF CÆSAREA. The Victory of CHRIST.

S. ATHANASIUS. A Psalm in narrative; also, a Psalm of statement with prophecy.