The thematic unity of Psalm CXLIV in light of Mesopotamian royal ideology

Date

2008

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Brill

YU Faculty Profile

Abstract

Psalm cxliv, which according to many scholars is a “royal psalm,” begins with a prayer for assistance in battle (verses 1-11) followed by a description of prosperity (verses 12-15). h e combination of these two parts parallels several examples from Mesopotamian royal literature in which the king is depicted both as a heroic warrior and as a provider of prosperity. In light of the Mesopotamian parallels, Psalm cxliv is an expression of a similar Israelite royal ideology.

Description

Scholarly article / YU only

Keywords

Psalm cxliv, Royal psalm, Mesopotamian royal literature, unity, royal ideology

Citation

Holtz, S. E. (2008). The thematic unity of Psalm cxliv in light of Mesopotamian royal ideology. Vetus Testamentum, 58(3), 367–380.