Psalm 122: Jerusalem reviviscut!

Abstract

An incisive literary analysis of Psalm 122 as well as the reconstruction of the possible historical context is necessary to fully grasp the original impact and function of this psalm. Sociological models have proved to be useful for the reconstruction of the (macro-) context. Psalm 122 is a post-exilic (ca 445-350 B.C.) psalm bringing hope in a disconsolate situation with its main theme being "Jerusalem! where Yahweh is". In this regard it matches its wider literary context, the ma'alôt collection. The poet portrays rebuilt Jerusalem as being ‘greater’ than it actually was to enhance his message. He endeavours to ‘revive’ contemporary Jerusalem on the model of the glorious Jerusalem gone by. In this way he could 'revive'his people’s faith as well.