The tradition-historical setting of Psalm 25 : How wisdom motives contribute to its understanding

The tradition-historical setting of Psalm 25: How wisdom motives contribute to its understanding Psalm 25 is an acrostic psalm and an individual lament. Several traditionhistorical motives and allusions can be identified in this text. Especially a few motives and images from the Old Testament wisdom literature contri­ bute to the significance o f the psalm. These motives are being identified and their function being determined in the context o f the psalm as a whole. They are interwoven with other identified traditions and motives to contri­ bute to the psa lm ’s understanding. TnV 1 ’nVx 2 :kvk •’p s : n y r ’ 3’ K ixVyyb’x n » 1ax*!?x ’ jinba ?|a :D j?n D’-u ián w a ’ is ó 1. x1? n i 3 ïp n irn x ’ jy.’ t.in m/p ^’ s t t 4 ’ytf’ ’ n W n n x '’? ’J ia ^ i ^n ax ? ’a a m n 5 :Di’ n'í?3 v i ’ ip íjnix m an D^iya ’? T*'roni n y r ^p an y -b r 6 Tjaio jyn 1? nrix*’VnDT ^ o n s ís t j v ^x ’y t ís i n jiy j nix'Dn 7

The tradition-historical setting of Psalm 25: How wisdom motives contribute to its understanding

INTRODUCTION
In a praise song o f the Qumran congregation1, the hymn o f Paul G erhardt, Nach D ir, O Herr verlanget mich2 and several other musical settings3, we find the lyrical resonance of the contents from Psalm 25.These echoing sounds reflect phrases and formulas o f a prayer, which contains expres sions o f hope and confidence as well as utterances o f expectation and praise.This psalm became a stronghold for the faithful supplicant in distressful situations through the ages.
Psalm 25 expresses the reflections and petitions o f a pious man who is threatened by the conduct o f his enemy, by the reality o f his own sins and by a situation o f utmost distress.Despite a discouragement and dejected-ness, the psalmist casts his hope on Yahweh-Elohim for instruc tion, guidance and forgiveness.He longs for a life in harmony with God, his Saviour (5a).
The psalm is a literary artefact with an alphabetical acrostic structure as the most prominent feature.This framework is constructed with a mosaic o f limited words and expressions.Typical o f the acrosticon, the tendency becomes visible where definite sounds, keywords and phrases are repeated.Although exegetes describe this literary characteristic different ly4, they all identify the same figure of speech, namely, repetition.
The acrosticon, which probably belongs to the poetry o f the postexilic wisdom school5, contributes not only to the decorative character of this psalm, but stresses the non-oral function o f the text.It thus means that this form o f art would have rather caressed the eye o f the reader than his ear.Psalm 25 is in this regard no exception.
The text exhibits further particular relations with Psalm 34.Schilden-berger6 refer to these two psalms as " Zwillinge" .It was especially Ruppert7, who, due to similar prayer descriptions and wisdom imprinted allusions, alleged the dependence o f Psalm 25 on the wisdom psalm , Psalm 37.With recognition o f mutual relations, Lohfink* convincingly turned this thesis of the dependence o f Psalm 25 on either Psalm 34 or Psalm 37 down.He concludes that " Psalm 25 sei von einem der beiden Psalmen abhángig oder einer von ihnen von Psalm 25" .Other psalms which exegetes relate to Psalm 25,are Psalms 86,119 and 143. Hossfeld9 has added psalms 44,78,103 and 132 to this list.The research history on the text analysis o f Psalm 25 brings a variety o f approaches to the surface.This includes a structural-strophic analysis;10 exposition by means o f numerical-geometric techniques;11 a m etrical statistic approach12; and finally a redactional approach13 where Psalm 25 forms part o f a larger redactional collection.
The question on the main theme o f the psalm stimulates exegetes to make different observations.Ruppert14 stresses the issue o f hope, while Van U chelen15 describes the core o f the contents as God who is instructing his ways.The central theme for Hossfeld16 is the forgiving o f sins, while the lengthy description o f Ridderbos17 portrays the psalm as a prayer for deliverance, guidance and forgiveness.The identification o f seven themes or semantic categories by Lohfink18 confirms that the central them e of Psalm 25 cannot be confined to a single category or denominator.
The relationship between the different tradition historical motives and allusions is a vivid and debatable issue in the research history o f Psalm 25.This aspect will receive special attention in the following exposition.

ST R U C T U R E
Regarding both its form and context, this psalm exposes an own distinctive and independent character.Ruppert19 formulates the thesis that Psalm 25 is a " literarische Komposition" with a palyndromic chiastic structure of which verse 11 forms the centre and focal point.This parallelistic and chiastic composition was first demonstrated by M oller20 on which Lohfink21 builds forth.The structure of Psalm 25 cannot be captured in a single or final depiction.The text reflects a variety which opens the possibility for several angles o f incidence.The psalm notwithstanding forms a dem arcated unit which can be divided into three strophes and an epilogue.It includes the following: This structure is suggested by several exegetes22, while interpretation differences amongst others mainly centre around the division between strophes B and C or the structural position of verse 22.Some scholars regard verse 15 as part of strophe B23, while others see it as an introduction to the final prayer in strophe C. Verses 1-7 form a prayer, through which the suppliant asks God for deliverance, guidance and forgiveness.Strophe B (8-14) consists of three parts.Verses 8-10 describe the being and acts of God.He is made known by a description of attributes.Verse 11 is a prayer for forgiveness, while 12-14 depicts the godfearing man in this relationship to Yahweh.As a nexus or bridge verse, verse 15 introduces strophe C with an atmosphere of expectation, hope and prayer.In the epilogue, verse 22, the individual experience of the psalmist is collectified and applied to Israel, who is symbol of either the congregation or the nation.
The predominant prayer character convince researchers to describe the psalm as a spiritual prayer26, as "ein Gebetslied"27 or as a "prayer of the congregation"28.The fact that the prayer with the wishes and petitions is not the only foringeschiduliche element in Psalm 25, restrains these characterisations from being descriptive for the psalm as a whole.To typify lhe text as a "prayer of the congregation" alone would likewise not be satisfactory, since the psalm functioned (and could probably still function) in the first instance as the experience of the individual (1-21) and was then on a second level of interpretation applied to the collective experience of Israel -due to a possible later addition of verse 22.
Although Lohfink29 is of the opinion that "Psalm 25 hat auf Gattungsebene mit weiter entwickelten Gestalten von Klage -und Dankliedern zu tun" , he classifies this text like Psalms 15 and 24 -under the "Einlaflliturgie der Volkerwallfahrt".This means that the psalm functioned as a prayer for those people who want to enter the sanctuary at Zion or for the nations who will gather at mount Zion in escatological times.Again, the element of prayer is predominantly stressed.
The prominent accurrance of teaching and wisdom elements in Psalm 25 convince other exegetes to typify it fonngeschichtlich as a didactic30 or wisdom psalm31.The fact that these elements do not play a sole or the major role if the Psalm makes these descriptions as overarching classifications for the whole psalm unsatisfactory.They are rather indications of a definite function in the Wirkungsgeschichte of the psalm.
The dilemma to unite all the different formgeschichtliche elements of the psalm under the one denominator, namely an individual lament, is rather a provisional solution.Since it cannot nuance them all simultaneous ly- The emphasis should rather be placed on the coherence and function of the different Gamw/gelements.It is of importance to notice that the combination o f these genre elements develope a comforting function.During the distressful circumstances, stimulated by the misery of the enemy, his affliction and own sins, the psalmist bewails his situation before God in the laments (6,7,(16)(17)(18) as well as in prayer and petitions (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22).His utterances include expressions of hope and trust (2)(3)5,8,(20)(21), hymnical descriptions (5,8-10) and confessions of sin (7,11) and trust (15).The author's strategical and decorative placement of the individual's experience within the framework of his trust expressions (2)(3)(20)(21), adds a theological dimension to the psalm's semantic interpretation.With an inclusion, the psalmist's experience is thus fonngeschichtlich embraced by his trust and confidence in the God, who assures redemption and delive rance (5).To seek refuge with God means comfort and security for every one who finds him-or herself in situations of distress -also for Israel (22).
With the above mentioned elements being discussed, full attention can now be paid to the tradition-historical setting and composition o f Psalm 25.

TRADITION-HISTORICAL SETTING
It is tradinonsgeschichtlich very difficult to identify a definite salvation historical tradition in Psalm 25.The author nevertheless paints the portrait of his text with allusive language, which is familiar to the Old Testament.Terminology and motives from the Pentateuch are evident.Especial ly the language from Exodus 32-34 and salvation historical expressions from Deuteronomy and the so-called Deuteronomist become visible.Themes from the cult and typical prayer expressions from the psalms are also used by the psalmist.The text doesn't even escape the influence o f the Old Testam ent wisdom school.A single prophetical motive, which occur regularly in the psalms also shows up in Psalm 25.
The language o f the respective tradition historical motives and allusions are intertwined and confirm the independent style and intention of the author.Although he uses phrases and terminology with specific meaning and content, they function unique in the given context o f Psalm 25.Every term and expression reflects an own significance, due to its relationship with other phrases and motives in the psalm.
Terminology from the Pentateuch exhibit reflections from Exodus 32-34, from the book o f Deuteronomy as well as from the so called Deuteronomist.M otives which can be identified from Exodus 32-34, are As a continuation o f his promises to the patriarchs and especially the content o f his fcrit with Abraham (Gen 12:7; 13:15; 15:18; 17:8 etc), Yahweh promised his people, Israel, to be a God for them.This under taking rested on two pillars, namely that He would lead them out o f their misery and distress from Egypt (Ex 6:48; Dt 4:20; 7:8; Jdg 12:18) and that He will bring them and their children into the promised land which they will possess (Ex 6:6-7; Dt 1:8; 4:1; 8:1; Ps 44:4; 105:44 etc).
The question could indeed be raised whether the psalmist overtook these heilsgeschichtliche motives and allusions from the Sinai frrit or had them in mind when formulating 13b (''and his children shall possess the land"), the metaphor in 15b (''for he will lead my feet out of the net") and in 17b ("he will lead me out of my distresses").Given the assumption that the author utilized these allusions when constructing the text of Psalm 25 with its own context and content, this conclusion is quite possible.Against the background of the Israelite salvation history, these motives function to establish the redemptive and blessing acts of Yahweh (Dt 11:22;19:9;26:17;28:9;30:16;Jdg 2:22;cf Ps 25:13 = Ps 37:9,11,12,29,34).
Despite its occurrence in Exodus 34:9, the theme of sin forgiving also appears in the Pentateuch (Num 14:19) and the Deuteronomist (Dt 29:19; 1 Kg 8:30).The theme forms the focal point and centre of the psalm and is the nexus between verses 8-10 and 12-14.It forms an angle of incidence as well as the turning point of the psalm.
The terminology /in n (10,14), n n y (10), DSEto ( 9) and in tf ( 20) are all well known salvation historical concepts which appear in the Pentateuch and the Deuteronomist32.The connection between 1S3 and JV13 as well as between 1XJ and Tiny (10) are confined to poetical texts only (Dt 33:9; Ps 119:2,22,129).
The hendiadys J1BX1 io n (10), which probably functioned as a litur gical formular33, is also familiar to the text of Exodus 34:6.Although ion appears quite regular in the psalms, its connection with farit in Deuteronomy 7:9,12 exhibits that the concept should primarily be under stood against the background of the Sinai-fcw.Describing the quality of God's relationship with man, the term expresses the "gemeinshaftgemáfie Verhaltungsweise Gottes der Seinen gegenuber34.
These heilsgeschichtliche motives and terms confirm the special relationship between Psalm 25 and the salvation history o f Israel, as described in the Pentateuch and the Deuteronomist.The function of these allusions and terminology could be summarised as follows: * They serve in the first instance as a recognition of and confidence in the salvation power and faithfulness of Yahweh in the past; * Secondly, they allude to a remembrance of the contents and respon sibilities of the Sinai-Z^m between Yahweh and his people.It becomes a measurement for hope and expectation in times of distress and confirms the assurance that God will redeem his fcw-partner.
* Lastly they acquaint the reader with the quality and content of a godfearing and devoted God-man relationship, as become known through the language and motives of the Sinai-fcr/Y.
Motives and images from the Israelite wisdom theology tend to show an influence on Psalm 25.The way or path-metaphor, the several teaching motives as well as aspects of the retribution doctrine make the influence of this tradition known in the text.In reaction on Ruppert, it was especially the work of Lohfink35 and Hossfeld36 which defined the relationship between the wisdom literature and the psalm.
The metaphor of the path or the way (4,5,8,9) which indicates a life of faithfulness or unfaithfulness to Yahweh, is prominent in the Israelite wisdom literature (Prov 1:12; 2:8,12 etc).Kittel37 found it therefore not strange to typify the prayers for God's guidance in the psalm as wisdom proverbs.
The teaching motif plays a central role in verses 4,5,8,9 and 12. Teaching has the intention to educate someone in order to get him realise what is right and wrong in God's eyes.This wisdom brings insight and results in a happy and prosperous life on God's way.Although man plays an important role in the teaching process, he is not the focal point of it.
Wisdom education in the Old Testament aims to say who Yahweh is as well as what He does and says.It teaches man how to relate with God or how to react to this deeds of deliverance.This pattern could well be identified in verses 8-14.
The guidance and instruction of Yahweh as well as His ton-attitude contribute to the suppliant's confession that God is good (8).Where other Old Testament texts only combine his goodness to a ton-attitude (Pss 100:5; 106:1; 107:1; 118:1,29; 136:1) or to a teaching motive (Ps 119:68), both these elements merge in Yahweh's goodness.31D therefore exposes the spendour of God in this distressful situation and anticipates deliverance.
After being instructed by God, man has a choice on which road to travel (Ps 119:30,173]).The afflicted individual clearly expresses his affinity for the way where he is accompanied and directed by Yahweh.He who chooses this way has a distinctive profile.Who is this man (12)?He is a man who fears God (Prov 1:7; 3:7; 14:2,16).He will experience the blessing consequences of prosperity, happiness and relief.He will enjoy God's 31D (Ps 31:20).Verses 13-14 follow the structure of the Israelite wisdom tradition by explaining 31t3 explicitly.
Characteristics of the Israelite retribution principle, as being exposed in the Tun-Ergehen Zusammenhang, becomes visible in the psalm.Good conduct is blessed by prosperity, while catastrophe follows bad behaviour.
He who trusts in God, will not be put to shame (2,3,20).He will experience deliverance and refuge.The unfaithful (3) on the other hand, will be put to shame.Those who keep God's covenant and testimonies, will experience JTOX1 Ton (10).A blessed life is imbedded in the fear of the Lord.The godfearing will overnight in goodness, his children will possess the land and he shall enjoy the intimacy of a relationship with Yahweh (13-14).The psalm concludes with the hope with which it starts.The assurance is given in verse 21 that Ttf'l DJ1 will preserve him who waits on the Lord.T j 'i cji is a typical expression o f the wisdom literature, which phrase the fullness or completeness of a relationship with God (Job 1:1,8; 2:3; Kg 9:4; Ps 37:37).
Similarities and particular relationships between Psalm 25 and other well known wisdom psalms, 34 and 37, confirm the influences of Israelite wisdom thought and motives on the psalm.These motives however function independently in the own context of Psalm 25.
The function of these wisdom allusions and motives can be reduced to the following:-* Firstly, they expose a didactic intention.To the reader is made known what wisdom is, namely that those who go on God's way could reckon with deliverance.This create hope for the supplicant in any distressful situation.
* Secondly they have a hymnic function.With different expressions of praise (7b, 8-10, l l a a ) Yahweh is exulted for his goodness.He is praised, for in this praise, his love and realized deliverance for the afflicted is anticipated.This strengthens the hope and trust in God for those people who are afflicted by circumstances.
No relationship with God is complete without the call upon His Name.With such an utterance, the psalm starts (1).( 11) is a familiar expression in the Psalter (Pss 23:3; 31:4; 106:8; 109:2; 148:5,13) to incline the identity and presence of Yahweh41.The cult was the Sitz where God's Name, the theolegomenon of his presence was experienced in a special way.For the sake of His Name, the psalmist asks for forgiveness ( 11).
The concept 1^13 (2,3,20) was probably overtaken by the cult from the prophetical sphere42.It is an important motive in the prophetical salvation and doom oracles.When Stolz describes he says: "das was Jahwes Willen zuwiderlauft, muB zunichte werden" .This destruction finds realization in the ChS-happening (Is 1:29;19:9;45:17,24;54:4 etc).Therefore the psalmist prays that he should not be put to shame, but that his enemy should experience this disgrace.
It is clear that these cultic motives contribute to the portrayal of the suppliant's relationship with God.The intensity and the quality of this relationship is nuanced by these motives.His pain and praise, his hope and trust are all carried by cultic expressions, motives and allusions.

CONCLUSION
Psalm 25 is a fine decorated work of art with content and literary features in its own right.The use and positioning of keywords and traditionsgeschichtliche motives and allusions contribute to the calculated composition of this psalm, which is not "simply a conglomeration" of a few loose thoughts and terms43.The decorative style not only serves an aesthetic purpose, but has an emphatical function to stress the content.It draws the attention to certain focal points in the text.
Regarding the tradition historical elements, the psalm reflects an interwovenness of motives, images and allusions from the Old Testament literature.Themes and expressions from the cult are not only intertwined with elements of the wisdom tradition, but salvation historical allusions and elements from the Pentateuch and the Deuteronomist are also melted with them.With motives from the Law, the Prophets and the Writings, Psalm 25 indeed exposes a canonical profile.