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“Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered; let those who hate Him flee before Him… As smoke is driven away, so drive them away; as wax melts before fire, let the wicked perish before God.” (Psalm 68:1-2)
In the shadowy corridors of Church history, amid exorcisms and spiritual battles, there existed a powerful weapon—a psalm so feared by demons that priests recited it as a divine shield. Today, nearly forgotten, Psalm 67/68 (Hebrew numbering: 68 in the Vulgate) was known as “the cursed psalm” for its effectiveness in the war against evil forces.
Why was this particular psalm considered a spiritual sword? What secrets lie within its verses? And most importantly, why did the Church largely stop using it in deliverance rites?
In this article, we will explore the origin, history, theological meaning, and modern relevance of this psalm, reviving a nearly lost tradition that could be key in today’s spiritual warfare.
I. The Origin of Psalm 67/68: A Hymn of Victory and Divine Judgment
Psalm 67/68 is one of the most ancient and enigmatic in the Bible. Its structure is complex, filled with warlike symbolism and references to God’s direct intervention in history.
1. A Psalm of Holy War
Originally, this psalm was a victory hymn, celebrating Yahweh’s triumph over Israel’s enemies. Its language is intense:
“Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered… You marched before Your people.” (vv. 1, 7)
The Church Fathers, such as St. Augustine and St. Jerome, saw in these verses not just a historical battle but a cosmic struggle between good and evil.
2. The Christian Interpretation: Christ Crushes the Demons
Early Christians read this psalm in a messianic light:
- “You ascended on high, leading captives in Your train” (v. 18) → St. Paul applies this to Christ, who, after His Resurrection, descends into hell and snatches souls from Satan’s grasp (Ephesians 4:8).
- “The Lord will crush the heads of His enemies” (v. 21) → A clear allusion to Christ’s victory over sin and the devil.
This interpretation made the psalm a powerful text against demonic forces.
II. The “Cursed Psalm” in Medieval Exorcisms
During the Middle Ages, the Church developed specific rites to combat evil, and Psalm 67/68 became a key element.
1. The Roman Ritual and Exorcisms
In the Rituale Romanum (the old exorcism manual), this psalm was not explicitly prescribed, but many exorcists used it by tradition. It was believed that:
- Its declaration of “enemies fleeing” (v. 1) instilled terror in demons.
- The imagery of God “melting the wicked like wax” (v. 2) symbolized the dissolution of demonic power.
2. Historical Testimonies
- St. Anthony the Great, father of monasticism, used this psalm against demonic temptations.
- Medieval exorcists reported that when recited, the possessed reacted violently, confirming its efficacy.
3. Why Was It Called the “Cursed Psalm”?
Not because it was cursed itself, but because demons cursed it, as it reminded them of their defeat by Christ. Some manuscripts called it “the psalm that makes the devil flee.”
III. Why Is It Largely Forgotten Today?
Over time, the use of this psalm in exorcisms declined. The reasons include:
- Liturgical Reforms: Vatican II simplified many rites, and some traditions were lost.
- Lack of Training: Many priests are no longer familiar with the theology of spiritual warfare behind its use.
- Fear of Sensationalism: The Church prefers to avoid practices that could be misinterpreted as “magic.”
Yet, the devil has not stopped acting, and the need for spiritual weapons remains urgent.
IV. Should We Reclaim Psalm 67/68 Today?
In a world where occultism, Satanism, and demonic oppression are rising, this psalm can be a spiritual shield.
How to Use It Wisely
- Not as a “magic formula”, but with faith and spiritual guidance.
- In personal prayer, especially during intense spiritual battles.
- Alongside other protective psalms (like Psalm 91 or 35).
Conclusion: A Forgotten Weapon, But Not a Lost One
Psalm 67/68 is not a cursed text but a blessed one, proclaiming God’s victory over evil. Its power lies not in the words themselves but in the authority of Christ, who gave us power “to tread on serpents and scorpions” (Luke 10:19).
Today, more than ever, we must rediscover the spiritual weapons handed down by Tradition. Will you dare to invoke this psalm in your battle?
“Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation.” (Psalm 68:19)
Have you used this psalm in your spiritual life? Share your experiences in the comments!
[Note: This article is informative and does not replace the guidance of a priest or exorcist. In cases of severe demonic oppression, seek ecclesiastical help.]
