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
Tag: justice
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 101
King David shown here with his harp, assuming he was in fact the poet and songster of this psalm, determines to 'sing of loyalty and of justice'. (v.1) He adds a powerful proviso. Recognising that he himself is not there yet, he intends to 'study the way that is blameless', (v.2) seeking that vague but enticing … Continue reading Psalm 101
Psalm 143, penitential 7
Note: the set readings for 9 October 2016 are Psalms 66 or 111. Both have been discussed in previous posts which can be found via Library & Index in the list of pages. The seven so-called penitential psalms (more>) start at 6 and are sprinkled throughout the psalter, running to the fourth -- the great Psalm 51 (recipient of … Continue reading Psalm 143, penitential 7
Psalm 94
Amidst robust language calling for vengeance and discipline, the psalmist impatiently (another "How long?") laments injustice and social degradation that society -- people -- can inflict on the poor, unlucky or disabled. The target of his or her anger is 'the wicked' who in turn cause ill to widows, migrants and orphans: They crush your people … Continue reading Psalm 94
Psalm 113, 18 Sep ’16 Alt.
Many parables in the New Testament propose an inversion of social climbing rules; the first shall be last, the proud shall be humbled, the outcast preferred, all you need is love. After an introductory song of praise -- in this case without invoking the usual evidence of mighty deeds -- the writer of Psalm 113 recorded a poetic … Continue reading Psalm 113, 18 Sep ’16 Alt.
Psalm 41
The gospels differ slightly in how they report the Beatitudes. Luke says: "Blessed are the poor", while in Matthew we read: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matt.5:3) Whatever Jesus actually said, it's quite possible he was quoting this last song in Book 1 of the Psalter: Blessed are … Continue reading Psalm 41
Psalm 103, 21 Aug 16
Note. The primary reading for this Sunday is Psalm 71:1-6. Please see the relevant post here>. The secondary readings include Psalm 103, said to be 'of David'. This song is a well-rounded tour of all the ingredients for worship -- praise, why we are blessed despite the brevity of human life, and the kindness inherent in … Continue reading Psalm 103, 21 Aug 16
Psalms in the South 