Blessedness

“Inasmuch as we all naturally want to be ‘the blessed,’ blessedness is defined by some as a good end. Namely, by a mistaken mind, many are led to pursue this in the form of bodily pleasures—fixed on riches and reputation, as well as luxuries in the present life. It is suitable that the word should be among [the words] that it is—that is, positioned at the beginning of the hymn to God—the truly blessed one and the good end from God, worthy of emulation, follows. Because of the rarity of the upright in former ages, he blessed some in that age, but our savior makes many blessed. He brings manifold blessings, but, first of all, may it be that he is blessed.”

This excerpt is from Eusebius of Caesarea’s commentary on the Psalms (as conveyed through a medieval Christian catena manuscript). Eusebius lived and worked during the 4th century CE.