ARGUMENT

ARG. THOMAS. That CHRIST teaches us not to be lifted up in pride. The Voice of S. Mary. The Voice of CHRIST to the FATHER, and of the Church to CHRIST. This twelfth step is understood to refer to the Blessed Ever Virgin Mary, Mother of CHRIST the LORD, and to every soul that rendereth not evil for evil, nor cursing for cursing, but contrariwise blesseth. The Voice of the reigning Church.

VEN. BEDE. After the toils of penitence passes on to us the sweet food of songs, singing, to wit, the whole of this Psalm concerning meekness and humility, that the sweetness of glorious devotion may refresh them whom the toil of previous confession hath wearied.

In the first portion the Prophet, teaching the Christian people meekness and humility by his own example, appoints a very heavy punishment for himself, in case of his not receiving the LORD’S commands with the greatest humility. Lord, I am not highminded. In the second part, he turns and exhorteth Israel to hope in the LORD alway, to the end that strengthened by such a hope, it may be able to endure all the adversities of the world. O Israel, trust in the Lord.

SYRIAC PSALTER. Of David. One of the Songs of Degrees. And it is uttered concerning Joshua the son of Josedech, the High Priest. And concerning humility.

EUSEBIUS OF CÆSAREA. Of humility of mind.

S. ATHANASIUS. A Psalm in solitary address.