Note. Psalm 43 was almost ignored when it came up last time (June 2016) since the Lectionary adds it to Psalm 42 as a combined reading -- and there is a good reason for that. It appears in its own right, but only as the alternative reading, late in Year A, 5 Nov 2017. This interim … Continue reading Psalm 43
Psalm 80, 18 Dec 2016
Note: Previous posts on this psalm (see index) were limited by a selective local music agenda for the day. This post broadens and integrates those comments for more general applicability. At South Woden this year, we decided that Psalm 80 would be displaced by other Advent readings and carols. Pity in a way, since coincidentally we celebrate two 80th birthdays on this … Continue reading Psalm 80, 18 Dec 2016
Psalm 72, 4 Dec 16
Previous posts in 2013 and 2105 reviewed a variety of ideas for this psalm, which asks for justice and wisdom in the ruler -- and in particular the sort of justice that emanates from divine sources whereby all are equal. Result: right judgment and protection for the poor (v.2). Those previous posts mentioned Taizé, some home-grown … Continue reading Psalm 72, 4 Dec 16
Psalm 122, 27 Nov 16
Note: An earlier post in September 2016 on this psalm provided more commentary and looked at an early manuscript antiphon. This post briefly covers the responsorial settings offered in a few sources normally used at South Woden. The song starts with the familiar opening declaration, appropriate for a Song of Ascent: I was glad when they said to me, “Let us … Continue reading Psalm 122, 27 Nov 16
Psalm 46, 20 Nov 16
Happy New Year's eve to all. Well, this is the last Sunday of Year C. Year A and advent start 27 November. [And for our local SWUC readers, at such times of cosmic transition, including of course the solstice, we are privileged to have Keith at the helm.] Psalm 46 also comes up at significant calendar … Continue reading Psalm 46, 20 Nov 16
Psalm 59: Judge fairly
In Psalm 59 as in many others, context and time are important. The situation is referred to in the introduction: To the leader: Do not destroy. Of David. A Miktam, when Saul ordered his house to be watched in order to kill him. The phrase "Do not destroy", like "Miktam", is obscure but may mean … Continue reading Psalm 59: Judge fairly
Psalm 135
Like Psalm 136, to which the reader should turn for more commentary, this psalm (text here>) is a sort of history lesson or song of praise for the main events in the Torah from creation onwards. Verse 14 promising goodness and justice even repeats a verse of the song that Moses sang after handing over … Continue reading Psalm 135
Psalm 58
David is certainly angry in Psalm 58, primarily against rulers who are wicked, unjust and violent. Although this poem does not appear in the Lectionary, this feature alone makes it entirely relevant in today's world as an expression of indignation and as a prayer for improvement in the rule of law and equity. However, anger can lead … Continue reading Psalm 58
Psalm 128
This poem of six verses, like most of the psalms of ascent, is short and simple. It presents an idealised picture of prosperous and happy family life. Surely, this is one of the pillars of a strong community: Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house, your children like olive shoots round about … Continue reading Psalm 128
Psalm 131
Like most songs of Ascent, this is brief and to the point. Three verses extolling simplicity, honesty and humility, with a fourth calling for Israel, or the people of God, to wait in reverence. And as one of the songs of ascent (120 to 134), the poem is said to be one of pilgrimage (see also the comment on … Continue reading Psalm 131
Psalms in the South 