Abstract
This article deals with some of the core issues in the study of Psalm 45. It describes the current state of research and critically reviews two relatively recent interpretations, those by Simon Chi-Chung Cheung and James Trotter. Both interpretations have methodological problems. The article concludes that the aim of Ps 45 was to praise a historical near-divine king on the occasion of an addition to his harem. Any "deeper" theological meanings and messianic readings stem from a later age.
Highlights
Due to its unique characteristics within the Book of Psalms, Psalm 45 is difficult to interpret
The aim of this article is to provide a short overview of the state of the research into this psalm and to evaluate two recent proposals for its re-interpretation
As Misook Lim has demonstrated, Ps 45 contrasts with its neighbouring psalms rather than that it can be bent to fit in the same theology.[78] image of the ideal king—can be read as critical towards a specific king (Königsideologie und Königskritik, 258–9)
Summary
Due to its unique characteristics within the Book of Psalms, Psalm 45 is difficult to interpret. The aim of this article is to provide a short overview of the state of the research into this psalm and to evaluate two recent proposals for its re-interpretation. Cheung proposed an interesting theological reading of Ps 45 based on its canonical position among its neighbouring psalms.[2]. Both his methodology and his interpretation can be questioned. The second proposal concerns the original Sitz im. Ps 45 is generally considered a royal wedding psalm, James Trotter argued that it can better be situated in an enthronement ceremony.[3] I will argue that attempts to decide on the original setting of the psalm remain inconclusive. The overarching aim of Ps 45 turns out to be surprisingly simple and straightforward: to sing the glory of a king
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