Psalm 42

Psalm 42

Structure:

We obviously have two stanzas:

a. 1-5

b. 6-11, see verses 5 and 11 as refrains

 

Author: sons of Korah (see story in Numbers 16:1-35). Regardless, of his personal deviation of the way of the LORD, the “sons” (physical or Levitical disciples) are not banned from the ministry on account of their “father.”  

 

Commentary:

The whole psalm is a response to the pressure of un-friendly neighbors. As they ask: “where is your God?” (v. 3).

The very first image gives out a comparison of a thirst and strong desire to be feed by God – think of a deer who was running the whole day (searching for food or escaping the attacks of the wild beasts). Now this deer comes to the streams of water – just like Psalm 23:2. Yet, deer is a wild animal. Which extends God’s care to those who do not have a regular excess to worshiping community.

They have to live by memory – verse 4.

And a recollection of deep theology of Creation – verses 6-8

Which ends with a tough question: “why have You forgotten me?” – sounds very close to Psalm 22:1 – the Good Friday psalm.

 

The righteous shall live by FAITH and trust – so, the refrain is the same – v. 11

THEN we come to realization that the psalms doesn’t end with groanings and complaints.

There is psalm 43 – which is the third stanza of the same psalm, see v. 5.

God is the source of VINIDACION – being accused of sins, unfaithfulness etc. God is the ONE who declares people just – 1 John 1:8-9.

“I will go to the altar of God” – a need for worshiping community!

 

Now, the same refrain sounds not like a psychological self-help, but as a true confession of relationship with God.