Psalm 78: 1bc-2, 34-38

The responsorial psalm for today’s feast describes how stories are handed down from generation to generation, a practice that is found in every society. Its purpose is to preserve the traditions that shape the identity and ethos of the people, giving them a sense of who they are by reminding them of the formative events of their past. They, in turn, will give these traditions to their descendants.

This is a very serious undertaking, for it is precisely in the handing down of traditions that the group’s identity is preserved.

Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old.

The psalmist begins by inviting the people to listen. Each phrase of this invitation signals that what he is about to say is important:

• “My teaching” is the Hebrew tôrâ, which is often translated as “teaching” or “instruction.” This term is closely associated with the divine law and wisdom revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures; here, it underscores the psalmist’s intention to convey spiritual and moral lessons from God.
• “Parable” is mashāl,  which suggests that instead of merely presenting information, the psalmist intends to engage the audience’s imagination.
• “Mysteries from of old” is hîdâ, which means “mysterious saying.” The psalmist pledges to give profound insight into things that are hard to understand, creating a sense of intrigue. Some translations render hîdâ as “riddles,” indicating a kind of intellectual adventure.

Our responsorial will skip from these introductory verses to verse 34. The portion that is skipped provides a historical narrative of the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness, focusing on their repeated acts of disobedience and God’s unwavering faithfulness. It describes God’s miraculous deeds, including the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of manna, while highlighting the people’s ingratitude, unbelief, and rebellion against God.

While he slew them they sought him and inquired after God again, remembering that God was their rock and the Most High God, their redeemer. 

The psalmist describes a pattern of the Israelite’s behavior, specifically, that they only turned to God after being severely punished. In times of distress, they recognized their need for God’s help and guidance. There was a pronounced cycle of disobedience followed by repentance and seeking God’s presence.

Without naming specific incidents, the psalm sketches a bit of the history of the people. they turned to God only after they had been severely punished.

But they flattered him with their mouths and lied to him with their tongues, though their hearts were not steadfast toward him, nor were they faithful to his covenant.

The people seemed to cling to God only when their very survival was at stake. They are depicted as flatterers, using insincere praise and dishonesty in their interactions with God. Notice how he calls out the fact that the people’s disobedience was not merely outward but also a matter of the heart.

Once again, a closer look at the original Hebrew helps our understanding of the psalmist’s meaning. Three words in particular should be noted: steadfast or faithful (’ēmūn), covenant (bĕriyth), and compassionate (rahûm). The psalmist is pointing out that God upheld the integrity of their covenant bond even when the people did not.

But he, being merciful, forgave their sin and destroyed them not; often he turned back his anger and let none of his wrath be roused.

Despite the people’s repeated shortcomings, God is merciful and forgiving. Being their creator, God had every right to take their lives, but instead, he repeatedly restrained his divine wrath and imposed punishment to purify them. God’s patience and mercy are unfathomable.

This is a Wisdom psalm that carries a very important lesson. The past is recounted as a clear example of what can happen both in the present and the future; namely, both judgment and salvation.

Take heed! Hearken! When our ancestors sinned, they were punished; when they repented, even if it was half-hearted, God was merciful.