Psalm 67 & 73 - Origen's Lost Homilies on Psalms (Codex Monacensis Graecus 314)

Google Drive of Translated Commentaries

Psalm 67 Overview

The homily appears to be an interpretation of Psalm 67, particularly verses 2-4 (as referenced using Psalm 69 in some citations, specifically 69:2-4a, 69:4b, 69:5a-b, 69:5c in the LXX, but the main passage interpreted is referred to as Ps 67:2-4). The speaker, who identifies as a disciple practicing meekness and humility, begins by reflecting on the nature of spoken words, distinguishing between prophecy and current reality. A word without Christ is considered empty and earthly.

The core passage under examination is: "God is risen and his enemies are scattered, and those who hated him fled from his presence; as smoke vanishes, they vanished, as wax melts before the fire, so the sinners vanished from the presence of God, and the righteous rejoiced, they were glad before God, they were joyful with joy."

Psalm 73 Overview

This homily is an interpretation of Psalm 73, identified as the third and seventieth psalm in the reading. The speaker begins with a prayer for "spiritual rain" upon the soul, so that good herbs may sprout and bear fruit, rather than briars.

The psalm is noted as being "of Asaph," distinct from David's psalms. Asaph is said to have prophesied in his psalms, relating things about Jerusalem and events after the captivity.

The homily interprets specific verses, moving from more literal or simple understandings to deeper, spiritual meanings: