Psalm 16: 5, 8-11
Our responsorial psalm for this week comes from Psalm 16, a prayer of trust and devotion attributed to King David in which he expresses confidence in God’s protection and provision.
O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup,
David refers to God as his “portion” and “cup,” symbols of inheritance and sustenance.
God gave a portion of the Promised Land to each tribe, clan, and family as part of the covenantal promise (Joshua 13-19). However, the tribe of Levi received no land inheritance because as Israel’s priestly tribe, God himself was considered their “portion” (Numbers 18:20; Deuteronomy 10:9). Here, David implies that like the Levites, his true inheritance and security come directly from God, transcending material wealth or territory.
By calling God his “cup,” David is acknowledging that God meets his needs fully, much as a cup overflows with drink to quench thirst, signifying abundance and divine provision (Psalm 23:5).
you it is who hold fast my lot.
With God as his provider, sustenance, and inheritance, David’s security rests in God’s hands.
I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence;
David has a profound confidence that stems from his constant focus on God. The phrase “at my right hand” conveys a sense of closeness and strength, suggesting that God’s presence fortifies David against adversity.
Notice that this confidence pervades every aspect of his being: heart, soul, and body.
because you will not abandon my soul to the netherworld, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption.
David expresses hope in God’s preservation beyond death. “The netherworld” is Sheol, the shadowy realm where the dead reside. “Corruption” (shahath) connotes decay or ruin, particularly in the context of physical decomposition.
This verse is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy. In the New Testament, both Peter and Paul quote this verse (Acts 2:27-3:31, 13:35), applying it to Jesus and his resurrection. They argued that shahath did not apply to Jesus because he was raised from the dead before his body could undergo typical physical decay.
You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.
The psalm concludes with a powerful affirmation of eternal life and joy in God’s presence.
This eschatological hope foreshadows resurrection, aligning with the New Testament’s view of eternal life through God.
Sunday Readings 