Abstract

The discernment of Psalm 26 as a cultic psalm has prevented noticing vital connections with wisdom literature. These connections with Proverbs and other known wisdom psalms provide clues for the composition of Psalm 26 to be set in the post-exilic period. The way in which wisdom literature is used conveys the religious ethos and daily life of a community. The fact that the wisdom character of Psalm 26 has been overlooked can be viewed as one of the main reasons why Psalm 26 has been interpreted solely in a cultic setting. The sapiential influence of this psalm has been confused to only reflect the cultic aspects. The psalmist wants to live a life according to wisdom as he seeks the rewards of being close to Yahweh.

Highlights

  • Wisdom may be seen as a thread running through the whole fabric of the Old Testament1 (Kidner 1964:15; cf. Whybray 1965:11)

  • The various links support the suggestion that the interpretation of Psalm 26 should not be confined to that of a cultic psalm

  • The core part of Psalm 26, namely verse 2, is connected to both Proverbs 17:3 and 30:5, adding to the argument that Psalm 26 was part of redactional activity in reaction to Proverbs 30:5. It seems that this redactional activity should be ascribed to the Persian period since the links are to texts of a similar era

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Summary

Introduction

Wisdom may be seen as a thread running through the whole fabric of the Old Testament (Kidner 1964:15; cf. Whybray 1965:11). Psalm 26 does not use these words, apart from eyes in Psalm 26:3, but it presents a similar affinity for pious wisdom evident in Psalm 17 Both Psalm 17 and Psalm 26 display sapiential influence because innocence is emphasised as being important, as is to be tested and tried by Yahweh. In the case of Proverbs 31:23, the verb ‫ ישׁב‬is used in a positive manner as Lady Wisdom’s husband sits at the gates of the city, and he is a respected man who forms part of the commercial, public and judicial activities vital to the life of the community (Fox 2009:896) It would be problematic, though, if a person chooses to sit with the wicked since this would implicate the person to partake in their plans and associate with them as is the case in Psalm 26:4

Samuel 2:8
Conclusion
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