PSALMS OF IMPRECATION: VINDICTIVE OR CALLS FOR VINDICATION?

Abstract

Biblical scholarship has continued to face the challenge of how to interpret and explain the most troubling aspect of the Psalter: the psalms of imprecation against enemies and the call for their destruction. While the imprecatory psalms have been a subject of scholarly debate and many helpful interpretations have been advanced, each successive interpreter would point out some inadequacies of earlier proposed solutions in dealing with some basic questions that confront the reader. One problem with the imprecatory psalms is the ethical challenge it poses to both Jews and Christians alike: how can a passionate spirit of vengeance and a vehement call for the enemy’s extermination be reconciled with the command to love one’s enemy (Lev 19:17–18; Matt 5:44)? Are the psalmist’s adversaries necessarily God’s enemies too? Are these strident cries for vengeance and retribution congruent with other inspired portions of the Psalter that elevate God’s attributes, or should they be excised from the Psalms? What are the functions and theological implications of the imprecatory psalms in the Old Testament? In considering some of these questions, this paper will argue that these psalms are hinged on divine justice and retribution. Yahweh is depicted as the sovereign and exclusive just judge of creation, and is called upon to execute justice on behalf of the oppressed and thus establish his reign of righteousness. In invoking God for assistance, the petitioner often appeals to the covenant theological basis of Yahweh’s relationship with the chosen people, Israel.