View of the select divine imagery in psalms

Abstract

The concept of God by the Hebrew mind is not projected in pompous psychological, philosophical, and theological complex terms. It was not a great deal of the learned mind but empirical knowledge of shepherds, warriors, battles, temple services, etc. characterized the world of imagery full of freshness and significance. The imagery in the book of Psalms is based upon conceptual relationships and divine principles which are integrated appropriately from the traditional and conceptual metaphorical analysis. Among the varied divine images, the image of God as a Refuge is a predominant one that makes room for many other protective images. It signifies the existing relationship between Yahweh and Israel, Christ and the Church. The imagery asserts a spiritual need of man to be in the right relationship and intimate prayer fellowship with God to defend oneself from the destructive powers of the enemy. Metaphorical images underline the allegorical interpretation as well as typological relations. The paper deals with some of the select divine images and their significance contextually.