Psalm 40 as a Torah psalm

Abstract

This article investigates whether the Gattung of Torah psalm can be added to the current accepted Gattungen of Psalm 40. The characteristics and criteria for Torah-related and wisdom- related concepts and their close interrelationship are discussed. The so-called characteristics of the Wisdom triangle and the Torah triangle are also explained. Psalm 119 as example of a Torah psalm is briefly discussed, indicating the interaction between wisdom-related and Torah-related concepts and identifying the criteria for a Torah psalm. The different words related to the Torah are identified in Psalm 119 and applied to identify other psalms possibly fitting the criteria for a Torah psalm. These psalms are then briefly evaluated – Psalm 40 as possible Torah-psalm in particular. It is concluded that the Gattung of Torah psalm can possibly be added to the current list of Gattungen associated with Psalm 40. The reference to the Torah in Psalm 40 possibly fits Torah-related concepts to a greater extent than wisdom-related concepts. In final instance the conclusion arrived at is that the connotation associated with or the relationship between Torah-related and wisdom-related concepts in post-exilic Israel and its role in the final redaction of the Psalter merits further investigation.