Psalms 15 and 16: Mutuality in God

READING THE BOOK OF PSALMS

PART XIV

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Psalms 15 and 16

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Psalm 16 is the sequel to Psalm 15.  Therefore, the placement of these two texts in sequence is logical.

I have consulted six commentaries regarding these psalms.  Three commentaries tell me that Psalm 15 was originally a liturgy for entering the Temple in Jerusalem.  The other three argue that this was not necessarily so.  Make of those facts whatever you will, O reader.

Even if we do not read questions ancient Levites posed to pilgrims in the Temple, we do not read a celebration of virtuous living in Psalm 15.  Most of these virtues exist within the context of human mutuality–practicing justice, speaking the truth, committing no evil against others, slandering nobody, exploiting nobody, et cetera.  These are Biblical virtues one can measure tangibly.

Psalm 16, which shares little vocabulary with Psalm 15, focuses on loyalty to God.  The psalmist, disgusted by rampant impiety, seeks refuge in God.  The psalmist readily acknowledges complete dependence on God, another Biblical virtue and the basis of Biblical mutuality.

Thus, when we put Psalms 15 and 16 together, we have the Biblical model of mutuality:

1. Recognition of complete dependence of God,
2. Acknowledgment of our responsibilities to each other, and
3. Acceptance of our responsibilities for each other.

Whenever we act, we have a moral duty before God to behave in a manner that honors our responsibilities to and for each other.  This is not rugged individualism.  Neither is this libertarianism.  No, this is Biblical ethics.

KENNETH RANDOLPH TAYLOR

DECEMBER 25, 2022 COMMON ERA

CHRISTMAS DAY

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Advertisement